Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Morales.
Hi Laura, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Since I was very young, I loved being in the kitchen. I remember propping myself up on a chair -so I could reach the countertops- to help prepare family meals. Helping with desserts was always my favorite part! By the time I could reach the countertops, I was coming up with my own recipes and giving them out at school. My teachers became big fans and would come to me at recess excited to see what I brought for the day.
After I graduated college, I realized I wanted to pursue baking as a career and work towards having my own business. I started working at a local bakery to learn from experienced bakers and sharpen my skills. During 2020, I was baking almost every day at home and I had a desire to share my baked goods with others. I started looking into the Georgia food laws and how to start a baking business from home.
It was a bit overwhelming at first, but I didn’t give up. Thanks to the encouragement and support from my family, fiancé, and close friends, I decided to take the leap, and I went for it. I officially opened Coqui Cookies in February 2021, and have been overjoyed with the outcome these past nine months.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As a first-time business owner, there have been a few bumps in the road, and I’m sure there’s still more to come. But that’s ok, It’s a learning process, and thankfully I have a wonderful support system. One of the biggest challenges has been me. It may sound cliché, but it’s true. It can be hard to balance work, Coqui Cookies, and personal life.
Sometimes it’s a lack of motivation due to being tired, other times it’s simply stressful due to things adding up. But it is in those moments where I get to prove to myself how much I’m capable of, I look at how far I’ve come and thought of the reason why I started this in the first place, which is the joy I feel when making others happy with a sweet treat.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in small baked goods such as brownies, cookies, and Puerto Rican pastries. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and the bakeries back home were part of my inspiration for Coqui Cookies. It was important for me to include my culture in this endeavor.
Although we do have some delicious Puerto Rican restaurants in Savannah, we don’t really have a Puerto Rican bakery. This sets Coqui Cookies apart from our other talented bakers in the area. I’m proud to be able to make and share some of my childhood favorite desserts with the community.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Currently, I don’t have a brick-and-mortar location, but I offer delivery on most weekends all through Savannah, Tybee, and Pooler. Details on how to order can be found by clicking the “Order Now” link on the Coqui Cookies social media pages.
Pricing:
- Dozen Large Chocolate Chip Cookies $14
- Seasonal Brownies 4 for $10ish
- Besitos de Coco (Coconut Macaroons) 6 for $8
- Quesitos 6 for $9
- Menu items vary monthly.
Contact Info:
- Email: coquicookiesllc@gmail.com
- Website: https://linktr.ee/CoquiCookiesLLC
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/coquicookies?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coquicookiesllc/
Image Credits
Virginia Seymour
