Today, we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Robbins.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always had a love for baking! My mom was always in the kitchen growing up, and I loved spending that time baking cookies and pound cakes (her specialty)!
About 15 years ago, I became very interested in learning how to decorate cakes, so I started watching videos and practicing for friends and family. With the support and encouragement from my husband and mother, we opened our Flirt with Dessert storefront five years later.
We have been open for 10 years now, and every day, I am amazed at the business and customer base we have built!
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Of course, it has not been easy! Being able to balance managing the business and daily operations is the biggest challenge. I am the head baker/decorator, office manager, head of marketing and advertising, HR, accountant, etc.
The first year is very tough; you just have to figure out the best way to manage your business, the best vendors to use, and manage money. 2020 was the most challenging year, but our local community was so extremely supportive. Even though I have to take on all the stress of owning and operating my own business, I love what I do and would never change a thing!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe you can tell us more about your work next?
I own a boutique bakery that specializes in wedding and custom cakes, as well as treats made from scratch. Our walk-in customers can enjoy an assortment of fresh cookies, cupcakes, brownies, cakes, pies, and more. We make custom cakes for all occasions, from simple birthday cakes to 3D sculpted cakes and tiered wedding cakes. Our wedding cakes and groom’s cakes are not only delicious but also beautiful, and each one is custom-made specifically for each couple.
We also provide decadent dessert bars for weddings and other events. I am most proud of our wedding/event cakes. It was always so disappointing to go to a wedding or event and see a beautiful cake that tasted terrible. I wanted to make sure that every cake we made was not only stunning but also delicious! We are a small, family-owned business that cares for each of our customers as if they were our own family.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Opening the business was my biggest risk taken. While it was extremely scary to take on such a big risk, I am so grateful that I did. Even if I would have failed, I could at least say I tried. If you never try, you will never know what could be!
Contact Info:
- Website: flirtwithdessert.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flirtwithdessertbakery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flirtwithdessertbakery
