Community Highlights: Meet Emmer Hadnot of E’s Tasty Treats

Emmer, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Emmer Hadnot. I was born the oldest of 2 girls and reared in Chandler, Texas. I came from a middle-class family where my parents did everything to ensure that my sister and I had all we needed to succeed in whatever we chose to do or become. My mother was an educator for 43 years. She began as a kindergarten teacher and ended her career as a 6th-grade math teacher. I grew up surrounded by creative teachers and later became an office aide through a work-study program at school. Unlike my mom, my dad became an entrepreneur when I was six years old. He opened his first mom-and-pop restaurant, where he sold hamburgers, fish, fries, chips, candy, and drinks. When I became tall enough to stand in front of the window and take orders for him, my passion for someday wanting to begin my own business became apparent to me. The first thing my mom and dad taught me was how to count money. After that, I could hardly wait to come home from school to help my dad at the store and wait on customers. “I loved it!” After that, I began dreaming of someday owning my own business, just like my father. My dad not only owned multiple restaurants, but he also followed his passion for other companies, later holding an electronics store. It was with great pride to watch my dad make his dream come true of being an entrepreneur.I dreamed of this passion throughout my high school years. I continued with my education, not knowing when this would happen. But before I graduated from school, tragedy and disappointments happened. When I was in the 8th grade, my mom and I received some unimaginable news. My dad and my baby sister were in a terrible car accident. Unfortunately, my sister did not survive. I was heartbroken, and so was my mom. My dad was seriously injured; however, he survived. We went through emotional and psychological trauma, but God gave us the strength to see us through. Four years later, my dad was diagnosed with cancer, and he only had a short time to live because he was in the final stage of the diagnosis. In my heart, I said, “What will I do without a dad?” He was my hero, the one with whom I would pattern my passion after. Because my mom was an active believer in God, her faith became our strength and became what sustained us through this difficult time. She kept me involved in the church to keep my mind occupied and redirected me to concentrate on my academics so I could focus on graduating from high school. 

Consequently, I later graduated from high school in the top 20% of my class and began working as a cashier at regional grocery chain while still attending college. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from The University of Texas at Tyler and presently working towards my master’s degree. After graduating college, I accepted a management trainee position. This program allowed me to travel to numerous Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas locations. As a result, I learned about the grocery business and every department throughout the store. In addition, I spent several weeks in the bakery learning how to decorate cakes during this time. A year later, I was promoted to Assistant store manager. After spending 21 years with this company, I decided to move to the next chapter of my career.

I met and married the love of my life. From this union, three children were born. Two boys and one girl; however, another tragedy came into my life. During the office visit to reveal the gender of the baby, the doctor determined, she had no heartbeat. I was devastated! My husband and I stood there in disbelief that this was happening. But, again, I looked to my faith, knowing that the Lord does not put any more on us than we can bear. With the support and prayers of my family, church family, and coworkers, we made it through this awful situation. My husband and I decided to try again at my doctor’s advice, and my second son was born. Both of my children have brought much happiness into our lives. My children are my motivation to work as hard as I do. They often shadow me in the kitchen by assisting with chopping ingredients, cleaning up my untidy messes, labeling products, and helping with deliveries. Both boys have the desire to own their businesses. My oldest son started his photography business last year. He named his company Empax Photography. He focuses on children, family, and animal portraits, and he is now the photographer for my treats. My youngest child often sells candy, pickles, and other snacks at our church events. They both enjoy singing, playing the piano, drums, and ukulele. Their love for music was inspired by my mom, who plays the organ for our church. They are active in school and church. My husband and I are trying to teach our children the same values and work ethic that we were taught. I serve as a youth leader in the church, a part of the communications committee, and I sing in the choir. I also help assist our local homeless shelter by feeding the homeless and by providing clothing and personal hygiene products. My weekly schedule stays full, working a full-time job and taking my children to their school functions, however, I still have the energy to bake my treats during my free time.I’ve explored several business opportunities, including printing, financial services, selling body shaping garments, telecommunications, and party planning. After all other attempts, in 2019, I launched E’s Tasty Treats. The desire to become a baker stemmed from watching my mom bake cakes and pies for her coworkers for school luncheons. They would often compliment her on how delicious her desserts were. So, I began to do the same for my job. The desire to become a baker grew stronger and sparked my desire to pursue a bakery. It gives me peace and satisfaction knowing that my creation will make someone happy. I love bringing joy to others. Unfortunately, as with many small businesses, COVID halted the progress of expanding. Fortunately, now, things are getting better. I took a leap of faith and registered for a local event in my town. That event relaunched my efforts in building my brand and company. Since that event, my cakes can be found at Nettie’s Southern Kitchen, a local restaurant in Chandler, two gift shops in Canton, a pop-up shop at a local barbershop in Tyler, other local community events, and birthday parties. My products ship to many Texas cities.

In conclusion, My desire is to make E’s Tasty Treats the preferred bakery for any occasion. A place where you can enjoy delicious, tasty treats. Customer service is our top priority, and we strive daily to produce delectable desserts that provide happiness in every bite.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Owning a business has its challenges. Trying to juggle having a full-time career, being a wife, and being a mother of two active boys has undoubtedly been the biggest challenge. There are a lot of late nights and early mornings trying to fulfill orders. Fortunately, I have a very supportive support system. My husband who allows me time to bake and handle more household duties; my children have become good at maintaining their household chores, washing dishes, and sweeping the floor. They also assist with product labeling and deliveries. My mom assist with prepping ingredients and handles other things that need to be done. It is truly a family affair.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
E’s Tasty Treats’ mission is to create mouthwatering tasty treats that provide happiness in every bite. We specialize in homemade cakes, pies, cookies, cupcakes, and chocolate treats. We take great pride in our products and have excellent customer service.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
COVID has taught me that the most important things in life are free. The memories that I made with my family during that time is priceless. Our faith grew stronger and we learned how to enjoy one another. Life can be so hectic but when you slow down and just take time to smell the roses, you gain a different perspective and appreciation. COVID also taught me that life is short, don’t sweat the little stuff and to be present in the moment.

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