Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Buckingham.
Joanna, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
AJ’s Sweet Creations was born on my daughter’s 1st birthday. My sister in law and I made cake pops for her party that was to be the next day, and it gave birth to an interest in baking as a way to make some extra money occasionally. I initially sold to friends, then my husband’s coworkers, and then strangers that came in from word of mouth. Once we moved to Frisco, my husband encouraged me to stop working my job in retail, to have our kids be in daycare, and do baking full time. This would be less stressful for everyone, give the kids their mother after school, and create a better family life for everyone. I was hesitant at first, but it has been one of the best decisions I could have made. Now, I sell desserts to friends and strangers everywhere from Frisco to Midlothian. I have gotten to be a part of these people’s birthdays, retirements, and weddings, all of which have been an incredibly rewarding experience in and of themselves.
Has it been a smooth road?
Life is never smooth, so this journey has not been either. Going from baking a little girl’s 1st birthday party treats to full self-employment was years in the making. I made desserts once a month (sometimes less), making very little for the work that I did. This is while going to school, having a family, and working full time. Once I got to the point of breaking away and doing it full time, I had to convince myself that it was going to be OK walking away from a full-time job to bake. Frequently it’s the self-doubt that is the biggest struggle.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
AJ’s Sweet Creations is an at-home bakery. We specialize in custom cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, cookies, and other delicious treats. You name it, we’ll make it. If we don’t make it, we’ll learn to. What sets us apart from other bakers is the same as what we’re known for: treating every dessert and party like it’s our own. We are excited to see the event the dessert is used in, hear from the guests or host, and see pictures of everyone happy to be there. We genuinely care about the people we bake for. They are letting us inside their homes and memories, and that’s a special thing. We are proud of this and the fact that AJ’s Sweet Creations helps keep our kids out of daycare and at home with us. Both my husband and I and our kids have benefited from this immensely.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
The Dallas/Ft. Worth area is great for not just bakers but anyone wanting to set out on their path to achieving their own personal goals and dreams. There are all types of people, cultures, and backgrounds to sell/market to and join in their communities. A large metro area is always conducive to businesses as it provides such an extensive marketplace to sell and get a foot in the door. More support for local businesses is always helpful, as well as vendor events that can be supported by the local communities additionally assist in getting a larger reach from just the people you know. This goes not just for DFW but for any place you want to set up shop.
Pricing:
- Cakes start at $30 but can reach $300 or more depending on design choices.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 940-765-8444
- Email: AJsSweetCreations@yahoo.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/AJsSweetCreations
- Facebook: Facebook.com/AJsSweetCreations
Image Credit:
Brittnie Renee photography
JC photography and design
La Fete events and decor
Eleventh Avenue Wedding Photography
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