Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Penman.
Michele, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always loved to bake, but I really started baking in 2000, when I was pregnant with my daughter. Warm cake fresh from the oven was my craving. I would make a cake, have a slice, and then I wouldn`t want that flavor anymore. (As a result, my daughter doesn’t like sweets too much!) That Christmas, I didn’t have too much money for gifts, so I made my coworkers their own cake. One person asked if I sell my cakes. I never thought about selling my cakes, but that year, I sold 4 rum cakes and Simple Cakes & Cupcakes was born. I made desserts for family and friends and took a few decorating classes. In 2016, after I divorced my husband, my daughter and I became homeless. During that time, I was able to go to culinary school through a government assistance program. I rebranded my company to Michele’s Cupcakes and landed my first client. After I graduated, I was given the opportunity to work with an agency that does VIP events. I have worked numerous VIP events including BET awards, The Oscars, The Grammy`s and the Superbowl. In 2022, I transferred from SoFi Stadium, followed my dream and moved to Texas and AT&T Stadium. In 2023, I left AT&T stadium, restarted my business in Texas, and acquired 2 clients. In addition to my clients, I am also a vendor at various craft fairs across the DFW metroplex.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has definitely not been a smooth one. I was diagnosed with MS in 2002, got divorced, became homeless with a teen daughter then decided to leave everything behind in Ca to restart my life in Texas. My faith in God was and is the source of my strength. Every person that told me I couldn’t do it only helped to push me to go further than I ever dreamed was possible.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Michele’s Cupcakes?
I am a home based, scratch baker. I am proud to be able use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. For example, I purchase my eggs from a local farmer. I fully support local and small business. While my specialty is cupcakes, I also offer cookies, brownies, cakes in a jar and chocolate dipped items like pretzels and strawberries. I can also make chocolate candies from the various molds that I have. Something that sets me apart a bit is that, in addition to using locally sourced products, I make my own vanilla extract. Vanilla adds a certain richness to my baked goods. I have been told that my red velvet cake and sweet potato cake are the best that people have tasted…not too sweet…just right. I also make bourbon bacon chocolate chip cookies. Just the right blend of sweet, salty and savory.
What does success mean to you?
I define my success as working hard, providing an excellent product at a fair price, providing for my family, paying bills on time and taking time to relax & have fun. Do I consider myself successful? Yes, but there is always room to grow and improve.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Michele’s Cupcakes
- Facebook: Michele’s Cupcakes
