Sugar Coated Dreams

In this lively and engaging interview, Arlene Chua, the talented cookie decorator and owner of Chua Cookie, shares her fascinating journey from immigrating to the USA from the Philippines at a young age to becoming a senior treasury analyst on Wall Street. Arlene's infectious passion for cookie decorating emerged unexpectedly in the face of personal challenges, leading her to create stunning edible artworks. From her delightful cookie designs, including iconic wedding dresses, to her successful business ventures, Arlene exemplifies resilience and creativity. The conversation delves into her experiences on Food Network's Christmas Cookie Challenge and Gingerbread Showdown, offering insights into the world of competitive baking. Throughout the interview, Arlene's down-to-earth personality and genuine love for her craft shine, making for an inspiring and delightful chat. You can find Arlene on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ and her website is www.chuacookie.com To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

Ashlee, the founder of Sweet Dough Cookie Co., shared her inspiring journey from a self-taught baker to a successful cookie decorator on the "Sugar Coated Dreams" podcast. She started baking cakes at just 13, but it was a request to make cookies for a bachelorette party that ignited her cookie decorating passion. Despite early mistakes, Ashlee's talent flourished, and she soon found herself making cookies for college students in Washington. Eventually, she transitioned to cookies full-time and opened her own brick-and-mortar shop. Her story resonates with the idea that passion can strike at any age, and her journey from a tiny apartment kitchen to a thriving business is a testament to her determination. Ashlee also discusses her experience on the Food Network's Christmas Cookie Challenge, where she won not once but twice, showcasing her competitive spirit and creative cookie decorating style. She also shares her love for teaching cookie decorating classes, emphasizing that you don't need to be a "perfect" decorator to teach – just a good understanding of the basics. Her philosophy is that classes are about having fun, learning a new skill, and enjoying quality time with friends or loved ones. Ashlee's story is a testament to following your passion, taking risks, and never giving up on your dreams. You can find Ashlee at https://sweetdoughcookieco.com or on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sweetdough.cookieco/ To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In this exciting episode of Sugarcoated Dreams, we are joined by the dynamic duo, Mike and Karen Summers, the creative minds behind Cookie Con, one of the most anticipated events in the baking community. With over a decade of experience running this event, they share the story of how it all began on a plane ride to Salt Lake City, where the idea of bringing cookie enthusiasts together was born. Karen, a talented cookie decorator with a passion for the craft, started her journey in the culinary world, inspired by her love for baking and artistic flair. Mike, always her biggest supporter, transitioned from web development to helping her build an online store for cookie decorating supplies. As they reflect on their humble beginnings, from running the business out of a small room in their house to moving into a warehouse, it's clear that their dedication and hard work laid the foundation for Cookie Con's success. The episode also delves into the challenges they faced as their event grew, highlighting the complexities of maintaining the unique and intimate experience that defines Cookie Con while accommodating a larger audience. Their story is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and community in the baking world, leaving listeners inspired and eager to learn more about the exciting world of cookies. Don't miss this fascinating glimpse into the origins of Cookie Con and the sweet journey of the Summers duo! Learn more about Cookie Con by visiting www.cookiecon.com To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

Rebecca, the creative force behind The DociaMack, shares a truly inspiring journey into the world of cookie decorating. With a desire to stand out and a family legacy to draw from, she crafted the unique name The DociaMack, rooted in her great-great-grandparents' nicknames. Her talent blossomed after making Halloween cookies for the first time, and her dedication led her to win the Halloween Cookie Challenge on Food Network. Rebecca's story showcases the power of perseverance, self-discovery, and the ability to turn a passion into a fulfilling career. Her advice to newcomers in the field is simple yet invaluable: take your time, be kind to yourself, and avoid the trap of comparison. Rebecca's story is a testament to how creative journeys can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.   To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

Join us for a sweet journey on 'Sugar Coated Dreams' as we chat with the incredible Merideth Glasco, the creative genius behind LCW Cookie Cutters. Merideth shares her inspiring story of turning her artistic passions into a thriving business in the baking world. From her musical and artistic family background to her unexpected transition from pre-med to the world of cookies, you'll be captivated by her journey. Learn how she ventured into the world of cookie cutters and what sets her high-quality cutters apart. Plus, discover her tips for content creation and the power of showing your face on Instagram. It's an episode filled with creativity and entrepreneurship that you won't want to miss! You can find Meredith on IG at www.instagram.com/lcwcookiecutters To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

Exciting news, friends! We have a superstar in the baking community with us on today's episode.  I am thrilled to bring you Brian Hoffman of Hoffman Media and Bake From Scratch Magazine.   Brian has an incredible story to share, from his early baking adventures to an unexpected career shift that led him to become a renowned baker and teacher. Join us as we embark on a global baking journey, from the charming streets of Paris to the cozy kitchens of Italy, all with Brian as your guide.  Plus, stay tuned for the inside scoop on the Monday Night Baking School with Williams Sonoma, a virtual baking class series that'll inspire your inner baker. You can find more about Brian here: https://www.instagram.com/brianharthoffman/ Bake From Scratch Magazine https://bakefromscratch.com William Sonoma Cooking School https://williams-sonoma.squadup.com Bake From Scratch IG https://www.instagram.com/thebakefeed/ To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

This week on the podcast I chat with Coach Chef Kim, the transformational life coach and former pastry chef. She shares her incredible journey from the world of high-profile celebrity desserts to a surprising twist that led her to discover her true passion. In this episode, we dive deep into the story of how Coach Chef Kim found her calling, even when faced with unexpected challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Her journey from pastries to cookies is nothing short of inspiring, and she's here to prove that dreams can be sweeter when you're willing to adapt and grow. Tune in today to learn how Coach Chef Kim turned her wildest dreams into reality and embraced change with open arms. 🌟 Don't miss this incredible tale of resilience and transformation.     Connect with Coach Chef Kim here https://coachchefkim.com/connect-with-me/ To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In this episode, we get to know Teri, the talented baker behind Tweets Cookie Connection. Teri shares her background, her passion for baking, and what inspired her to start her cookie business. Teri's journey from dreaming about starting a baking business to actually making it happen is truly remarkable. She discusses the challenges she faced along the way and the pivotal moments that helped her turn her dreams into delicious reality. For those interested in the creative side of baking, Teri delves into her process of designing unique and eye-catching cookies. She shares her favorite cookie designs, her sources of inspiration, and some tips for aspiring bakers looking to enhance their cookie decorating skills. Navigating the baking community can be both exciting and daunting. Teri shares her experiences in networking with fellow bakers, collaborating on projects, and the importance of community support. Throughout the episode, Teri recounts some of her most memorable moments as a baker. From creating cookies for special occasions to heartwarming customer stories, she reminds us why she loves what she does. As we wrap up our conversation, Teri offers valuable advice for anyone dreaming of starting their own baking business. Her top tips for success and encouragement to fellow dreamers to take that first step are both inspirational and practical. You can find Teri at https://www.tweetscookieconnection.com/ To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

Get ready for this episode of Sugar Coated Dreams podcast, where we'll be introducing you to the incredibly talented Julie McAllister of @JulieMcAllisterCakes! Join us as we dive into the world of baking and artistry, where Julie's cakes aren't just going to be desserts—they'll be breathtaking masterpieces that bring celebrations to life. From jaw-dropping wedding cakes to captivating brand presentations, Julie's attention to detail and artistic vision will be truly unparalleled. Prepare to be inspired by her journey from dreamer to doer in the baking community. You can find Julie here: https://juliemcallistercakes.com/ https://www.instagram.com/juliemcallistercakes/ To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In the newest episode of "Sugar Coated Dreams," I chat with Victoria Jones, the artist behind Little Penelope's Cookie Boutique. We've all been there – that moment when we're on the hunt for the perfect birthday cookies for our little ones, only to be left feeling a bit disappointed. Well, Victoria's story begins just like that, but what happens next is truly inspiring! Victoria decided to take matters into her own hands and enrolled in a cookie decorating class led by a local cookie artist. Talk about a turning point! From there she started from scratch and grew her skills from the ground up. Victoria's journey from novice to expert showcases the power of dedication and passion. But here's where it gets even cooler – Victoria's newfound skills started getting noticed by friends and family. Orders began pouring in, and just like that, Little Penelope's Cookie Boutique was born. It's a story of passion meeting opportunity, and we can all relate to that feeling of turning something we love into a thriving business, right? Oh, and here's the icing on the cookie: Victoria didn't stop at baking amazing treats. She wrote a book titled "The Complete Cookier's Guide to Successful Pre-Sales and How to Plan, Market, and Profit from Your Decorated Cookie Business." Yep, she's sharing her journey, insights, and super helpful tips for fellow cookie artists.  We're also digging into the art of juggling – you know, that fine balance between running a successful cookie business and being an awesome mom. Victoria spills the beans on how she manages her time, makes the most of her daughter's fascination with cookie decorating, and rocks it on social media. Speaking of which, she's got some real wisdom to share about the Instagram game, from engaging with your audience to nailing those perfect shots. So, fellow cookie lovers, don't miss out on this episode full of relatable moments, game-changing insights, and mouthwatering inspiration. Tune in and get ready to be motivated to turn your own cookie dreams into reality. Keep on baking, keep on dreaming, and keep on making those delicious dreams come true! Find Victoria at www.littlepenelopescookieboutique.com Instagram. www.instagram.com/littlepenelopescookieboutique.com You Tube https://www.youtube.com/@littlepenelopescookieboutique To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In this touching episode, join us as we hear the inspiring story of Caroline, the creative spirit behind Sweet Khaki's, who turned her life's challenges into a thriving pie business that spreads joy and memories one slice at a time. Caroline's journey took an unexpected turn when a personal tragedy left her feeling lost and without purpose. The weight of her grief was unyielding, and nights turned into baking marathons as she sought solace in the kitchen. Her husband woke up to a countertop adorned with pound cakes, spaghetti sauce, and apple pies. This profound connection between cooking and healing marked the beginning of her transformative journey. As Caroline navigated her way through sorrow, she realized that cooking had become her therapy. It was through the careful selection of ingredients, refining recipes, and crafting the perfect pie that she found solace. Her devotion to her craft deepened as she saw the joy her creations brought to others. This pivotal moment sparked her remembrance of her mother's nurturing through food, and she recognized that she could carry on this tradition. The journey wasn't without challenges. Caroline faced a life-altering heart attack that shattered her energy and strength. But her resilience and newfound perspective led her to make a promise to herself and to God. With unwavering determination, she decided to turn her passion into a business, selling pies that encapsulated the warmth and love she experienced growing up. Launching Sweet Khaki's from her front porch marked the beginning of a heartfelt adventure. Orders poured in, and she saw her creations find homes on tables across the town. Through the ups and downs, she embraced each step, from acquiring licenses to stepping into her own commercial kitchen — a bright red barn that symbolized not just a workspace, but a testament to her unwavering commitment. Today, Sweet Khaki's pies are more than just delicious treats; they're carriers of memories and connections. Caroline's story is a reminder that from heartbreak can emerge strength, purpose, and the ability to touch lives in meaningful ways. Join us as we dive into this tale of determination, resilience, and the power of turning life's challenges into opportunities for growth and love. Sweet Kaki's https://www.sweetkakis.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sweetkakis/ The Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit https://cheerfulcutters.com/pages/the-cheerful-box The Cheerful Baker on Instagram www.instagram.com/thecheerfulbaker

Hey there, fellow dreamers! Welcome back to another heartwarming episode of Sugar Coated Dreams! Today, we're diving deep into the creative universe with the incredibly talented Krista Ford from The Doughmestic Cookie. You're in for a treat as we journey through Krista's story – from her mom-focused apparel gig to becoming a cookie apparel queen.  Get ready to be inspired, because Krista's tale is all about embracing creativity and taking the plunge into the unknown. Picture this: Krista stumbled upon cookie decorating during a time of change, and her path beautifully illustrates how jumping into something headfirst can lead to extraordinary results. Now, let's talk about Krista's creative genes. Her background in fashion and design has woven magic into her cookie decorating and those super cute baking tees that you've probably seen around. It's like her creativity has this magnetic pull that effortlessly connects different artistic endeavors. Hold onto your aprons, because we're about to uncover Krista's social media mastery! She spills the beans on how to be your authentic self on those platforms. Yep, even on days when life isn't exactly picture-perfect. Krista's got some golden advice for anyone who's looking to build a real connection online while building their business. But here's the icing on the cake: Krista's journey is a treasure trove of lessons for all you aspiring entrepreneurs. If you're hesitant about starting your own venture, listen up. Krista's all about seizing the moment, embracing the unknown, and learning as you go. Her "just go for it" spirit is contagious and perfect for all the dreamers out there. And guess what? There's a secret brewing! Krista's got a big project on the horizon that involves fabrics and manufacturing. We're on the edge of our seats, eagerly waiting to see what she's cooking up. So, my lovely listeners, get ready for a creative rollercoaster as we uncover Krista Ford's journey, her entrepreneurial wisdom, and her unapologetic love for taking chances. Grab your favorite snack, get cozy, and tune in to soak up Krista's magical story. Remember, Sugar Coated Dreams fam, the world is your canvas, and Krista Ford is here to remind us that it's okay to dive into the unknown, sprinkle some imperfection, and create something uniquely beautiful in the world of business and creativity.   To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

Cynthia Raven, owner of Sugar Chat Cookie Studio, is an enthusiastic and experienced cookie decorator who also teaches cookie decorating classes. With a background in human resources and a passion for artistic pursuits, Cynthia has a diverse range of experiences. She initially ventured into the cookie world in 2016 after her daughter encouraged her to showcase her creations on Instagram. This move led her to discover the wider cookie decorating community, which she had previously been unaware of. Cynthia shared a humorous anecdote about her initial choice of username, "Sugar Chat," and how she later incorporated "Cookie Studio" to avoid misconceptions. Cynthia's journey is shaped by her artistic inclinations from a young age. While she studied art in school and had a natural artistic talent, she eventually found herself working in human resources. However, her passion for art never faded, and she continued to explore creative avenues, including cake decorating. Cynthia later transitioned into cookie decorating and found her niche. She found joy in the intricate details of icing work and her ability to freehand designs onto cookies. Her skill is attributed to her ability to keenly observe and replicate what she sees, eliminating the need for projectors or tracing. Cynthia's connection to the cookie decorating community deepened as she met fellow decorators, including Julia Usher and Jenny from Creative Cookie. Her interaction with Julia Usher, a renowned figure in the industry, was a pivotal point. They bonded over their shared approach to cookie art and became friends. Cynthia's involvement with Julia's workshops and events has solidified their friendship and creative collaboration. Her journey exemplifies how pursuing one's artistic passions can lead to unexpected friendships and opportunities for growth. Cynthia's commitment to learning is evident in her continuous pursuit of knowledge in the field. She values taking classes and attending workshops, recognizing that even after years of experience, there's always something new to learn. This dedication to lifelong learning has contributed to her growth as an artist and a teacher. Cynthia also emphasized the importance of breaking down complex designs into manageable components, an approach she employs in her teaching to help students overcome creative challenges. Cynthia Raven's story is a testament to the idea that pursuing one's passions, even later in life, can lead to fulfilling and unexpected journeys. Her transition from art student to human resources professional to cookie decorator and teacher reflects the evolving nature of personal growth and creative exploration. Through her connections with mentors and peers, Cynthia has found her stride in the cookie decorating world and continues to inspire others through her art and teaching. You can find Cynthia on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sugarchatcookiestudio/ Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sugarchatcookiestudio/ Her website https://www.sugarchatcookiestudio.com/ To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In today's episode, we have a delightful guest joining us – Madison, the owner of Busy Bake House in Carthage, Texas. Madison takes us on a journey through her baking adventure, starting with her passion for cookies, which she has been making for about four and a half years now. Originally selling locally, she eventually transitioned to an online presence, leveraging social media to showcase her delicious creations. Beyond cookies, Madison has a beautiful family – two precious children aged seven and four, and four adorable rescue dogs. Needless to say, her life is a whirlwind of joy and excitement! During our conversation, Madison shares a heartwarming story about her camp experience, where she serves as the director of the music program at Camp Honey Creek for girls. This all-girls outdoor camp provides a refreshing break from electronics and social media, allowing young girls to learn valuable skills like problem-solving, face-to-face communication, and resilience. Madison emphasizes the importance of empowering young girls to become strong, independent individuals, and it's evident how much she values this role in her life. As we delve deeper into Madison's baking journey, she talks about how she stumbled upon the world of decorated cookies. Inspired by a baking show, she received a cookie decorating kit as a gift and decided to give it a try. The beginning was tough, with failed attempts and frustrations, but Madison's determination led her to master the art of cookie decorating. She now creates stunning and delicious cookies, often sharing her vibrant creations on Instagram. Our conversation takes an unexpected turn as we discuss Madison's signature style, which includes her eye-catching nails and rings. At first, she faced some criticism, but she took it in stride and decided to embrace her unique and vibrant style. And why not? After all, Madison's creativity shines through not only in her cookies but also in her personal expression. As we wrap up, Madison shares her latest venture, the Butter Life Planner, designed specifically to assist bakers in managing their busy lives. With a focus on time management and organization, this planner aims to help bakers balance their passion for creating beautiful cookies with other aspects of life. It's evident that Madison's journey has been filled with ups and downs, but her love for baking, creativity, and teaching shines through in everything she does. Join us on this inspiring episode of "Sugar Coated Dreams" as we celebrate Madison's success and learn valuable lessons about pursuing our passions with determination and joy. Don't forget to check out Busy Bake House on Instagram for a daily dose of colorful and delightful cookie art! To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In this heartwarming and insightful episode, Dr. CC Weaver, also known as Ceasy Does It, shares her journey from family and lifestyle medicine to the world of baking cookies. She reveals how baking became a source of joy and balance in her life, a part of her lifestyle medicine journey. Dr. Weaver emphasizes how cookies can be therapeutic, bringing happiness to both the baker and the recipients. As a physician, Dr. Weaver promotes lifestyle medicine modifications for her patients, encouraging a well-balanced life and occasional indulgence in treats. While she refrains from giving cookies to patients, she believes in the value of treating oneself and finding joy in life's little pleasures. Beyond baking, Dr. Weaver is a multi-talented individual and a creative at heart. She discusses her diverse interests, from writing a children's book to redecorating parts of her house. The name "Ceasy Does It" was born from the observations of her friends, as she continuously ventured into various endeavors with ease and creativity. Reflecting on her childhood, Dr. Weaver recalls being a shy and quiet introvert but always had a creative side. Inspired by her grandmother, a baker in New York, she developed a love for baking and fond memories of her grandmother's delicious creations. Years later, during a life transition, Dr. Weaver found healing and joy in baking, making it a significant part of her life. The conversation takes a meaningful turn as both Dr. Weaver and the host discuss their experiences as mothers of children with special needs. They share stories of resilience and the significance of embracing life's unexpected turns, which may lead to greater purposes. Dr. Weaver's book, "Nia's Puzzle," is the highlight of the episode. The book cleverly conveys life as a puzzle, with each person receiving one piece at a time from a higher power. The story encourages patience, perseverance, and resilience, teaching readers that life's challenges may not make sense immediately, but the pieces will come together to form a beautiful picture in the end. The book's vulnerability and profound life lessons make it a valuable resource for children and adults alike. Furthermore, the conversation touches on Dr. Weaver's appearance on the Food Network's Christmas Cookie Challenge. Her husband's excitement and support throughout the process made the experience even more memorable, although both spouses wished they could have shared the experience together. Overall, the episode delves into the joy of baking, the importance of embracing life's challenges, and the value of finding one's purpose. Dr. Candice Weaver's inspiring journey and insights leave a lasting impression, reminding listeners to cherish life's puzzles and trust that the pieces will eventually come together in a meaningful way. You can find CC's book here: www.niaspuzzle.com You can find CC on instagram at www.instagram.com/ceasydoesit To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In this episode of "Sugar Coated Dreams," I had the pleasure of interviewing Meredith from Sweet Sugar Laine. She's an incredible baker who turned her dreams into reality, and her journey is truly inspiring. Let me take you through our conversation and share some of the highlights. Meredith started off as a quilter, spending her days working with heavy machines and driving them to put beautiful quilts together. However, she found herself yearning for something more. One day, out of the blue, she received a life-changing phone call from an aqua quilting machine manufacturing company. They offered her a position as a national educator, traveling across the US to teach people how to quilt using their machines. It was a dream come true for Meredith, who has always loved teaching and sharing her knowledge with others. But how did quilting lead to cookies, you may wonder? Well, that's where Meredith's story takes an interesting turn. Despite being in the technical world of quilting, she has always had a crafty side. She's passionate about knitting, sewing, and various other crafts that allow her to work with her hands. This love for creativity eventually led her to the world of cookie decorating. One day, feeling a bit bored and in need of something for herself, Meredith decided to explore a new venture. She started making cookies and sharing them with her neighborhood. Little did she know, her delicious treats would create such a buzz that the Homeowners Association asked her to make Christmas cookies for them. The response was overwhelming, and that's when Meredith realized she had a business opportunity on her hands. Sweet Sugar Laine was born. Meredith quickly dove into the world of cookie decorating, refining her skills, and building her business. She expanded beyond her neighborhood, receiving orders from all over, and her cookies became highly sought after. What started as a casual hobby turned into a full-fledged cookie business in no time. During our conversation, Meredith shared her love for teaching and helping others. She enjoys sharing her knowledge through Instagram videos and local classes. But she didn't stop there. She also started Sweet Sugar Laine's cookie cutter shop, where she sells adorable cookie cutters, stencils, and even offers custom silk screen stencils for fellow bakers. Her goal is to make these tools accessible and affordable for others, saving them the expense of buying expensive equipment. One of the highlights of our conversation was Meredith's appearance on the Food Network's Christmas Cookie Challenge. It was a surreal experience for her, going from being a pipeline worker to competing on national television. She shared the excitement and exposure it brought to her business, and it was truly inspiring to hear how far she has come. Throughout our conversation, one thing became clear: Meredith's journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the willingness to try new things. She encourages aspiring bakers and entrepreneurs to embrace their creativity, explore different avenues, and be open to learning and growing along the way. I hope you enjoyed this episode of "Sugar Coated Dreams" with Meredith from Sweet Sugar Laine. Her story is a reminder that dreams can turn into reality when you have the courage to chase them. Be sure to check out Sweet Sugar Laine for some delectable treats and creative baking supplies. Until next time, keep chasing your sweetest dreams! You can find Meredyth at www.instagram.com/sweetsugarlaine www.facebook.com/sweetsugarlaine www.sugarlainecutters.com To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com

In this episode of "Sugar Coated Dreams," Sam Bachman, a cookie artist based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, shares her journey into the world of cookie decorating. Sam recounts how she initially started as a cake enthusiast but found her way to cookies through a caring and sharing project called "We Deliver Love." Through this project, she discovered the cookie community and was inspired to try cookie decorating herself. Despite initial struggles and imperfect results, Sam persevered and honed her skills, eventually turning her hobby into a successful business. Along the way, she found support and encouragement from fellow decorators and began teaching classes. Sam credits her love for being active and outdoors as a driving force behind her creativity. She finds that being outside allows her to think freely and draw inspiration from nature and her surroundings. Sam shares her advice for beginners, emphasizing the importance of persistence and not giving up when facing challenges. The episode concludes with a reflection on the impact of the cookie community and how it has become an integral part of Sam's life and career. You can find Sam here https://www.instagram.com/sammiebssweets/ https://sammiebssweets.square.site https://www.facebook.com/SammieBsSweets Learn more about The Cheerful Box - a monthly cookie decorating subscription box here www.cheerfulcutters.com

Renee, the owner of Sweet Cheeks by Renee, shares her journey in the podcast episode. She started her business eight years ago, initially focusing on cakes but later transitioning to cookies. Being self-taught, Renee has embraced the evolution of her business, now teaching cookie decorating. Growing up, Renee always had a creative side, constantly doodling and drawing. She pursued interior design in college as a way to utilize her artistic skills. Through trial and error, Renee found her passion for cookie decorating and decided to start Sweet Cheeks by Renee after the birth of her son. She explains how the name "Sweet Cheeks" came about, despite initial doubts from others. Renee discusses the balance between indulging in her love for cookies while also maintaining a fitness-conscious lifestyle. Renee shares her experience in selling her popular sugar cookie recipe and online classes. She emphasizes the importance of teaching classes in a way that she would have wanted to learn, providing detailed instructions and explanations while decorating. Renee also discusses her passion for designing textured cookies and creating dimension in her designs, drawing inspiration from her background in interior design. She encourages aspiring cookie artists to experiment with texture and find inspiration in everyday objects and materials. The conversation moves on to the topic of designing cookie sets and the challenges it poses. Renee expresses her desire to create a class that teaches the process of designing sets from start to finish, utilizing her design background to provide valuable insights. She shares her excitement about teaching at Cookie Con, where she will be offering classes focused on bridal shower sets. Renee also reveals her experience as a winner of the Christmas Cookie Challenge and discusses the filming process during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the podcast episode provides a glimpse into Renee's journey as a cookie artist, her creative process, and her dedication to teaching and inspiring others in the cookie community. ✨Website: Sweet Cheeks by Renee ✨Instagram: @sweetcheeksbyrenee ✨Facebook: Sweet Cheeks by Renee To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com 🎁

In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Andrea, who is not only a talented cookie artist but also the proud owner of a vintage cookie camper. Andrea takes us on a journey through her creative life, starting with her passion for art as a child and her love for floral design. She shares how her artistic background and her experiences in the flower industry have influenced her unique style of cookie decorating. We learn about Andrea's love for Cookie Con, a convention where cookie enthusiasts gather to share their love for all things cookie-related. Andrea describes it as a place where she found her tribe, a community of like-minded people who speak the same language of cookies. She reminisces about winning an award at Cookie Con and the joy of connecting with fellow cookie artists. One of the highlights of the conversation is Andrea's cookie camper, which she affectionately named "Cookie." She tells us about the serendipitous moment when she stumbled upon the idea of owning a vintage camper for her cookie business. We hear stories of her successful pop-up events and even her backstage experience at a Reba McIntyre concert, where her cookie camper stole the show. Throughout the episode, Andrea emphasizes the importance of embracing creativity and taking risks. She shares her process of creating unique cookie designs inspired by real flowers, staying true to nature, and ensuring her cookies are not only beautiful but also meant to be enjoyed. She also encourages listeners to keep pushing forward, even when facing failures, as it's all part of the journey toward success. Andrea's infectious energy and can-do attitude shine through as she talks about her passion for creating and her determination to make things happen. Her story serves as a reminder that dreams can turn into reality when we dare to follow them with enthusiasm and perseverance. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Andrea and her delightful cookie adventures. To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com You can find Andrea by visiting https://instagram.com/andykayscookies?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== https://andykayscookies.com/ https://m.facebook.com/andykayscookies/?wtsid=rdr_0tHJ97imjfLK73plf https://youtube.com/@andykayscookies6101 https://www.tiktok.com/@iamandykayscookies?_t=8dYazjuVYAF&_r=1

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Fred- Doc Macaron, a scientist turned pastry chef. Fred shares his unique path from having a Ph.D. in cell biology and working in the pharmaceutical industry to discovering his passion for baking and pursuing a career as a pastry chef. Despite the apparent contrast between science and pastry, Fred identifies several similarities, such as the importance of processes in both fields. He views the kitchen as a laboratory, where ingredients can be manipulated to create new and delicious desserts. Fred's interest in baking science was piqued when he started experimenting with recipes at home. He noticed that despite using similar basic ingredients, the way they were manipulated led to different outcomes. This realization motivated him to delve deeper into the science behind baking, particularly in the realm of French pastries. He became fascinated with the intricate details that could significantly impact the results, such as mixing times and the freshness of ingredients. Using his scientific background and creativity, Fred approached baking as a series of experiments, documenting each step to understand the role of ingredients and techniques. His journey of self-discovery led him to specialize in French macarons.  By methodically breaking down the process and experimenting with different variables, Fred honed his skills and mastered the art of making macarons. Throughout the podcast, Fred emphasizes the importance of accuracy, practice, and patience in achieving the perfect macaron shells. He also highlights the significance of understanding the role of each ingredient and adapting recipes to suit individual kitchens and equipment. As Fred's passion for baking grew, he decided to enroll in pastry school to enhance his knowledge and skills. This decision provided him with a solid foundation and a supportive community of instructors and fellow baking enthusiasts. Since then, Fred has embarked on a journey as a pastry educator, offering a variety of online classes and consulting services. He aims to bridge the gap between science and baking, imparting his knowledge and helping others learn and troubleshoot their baking endeavors. Fred's brand, Doc Macaron, focuses on education, training, and content creation. He shares his recipes and techniques through social media and online classes, inspiring others to explore the world of baking. Despite the competitiveness of the industry, Fred believes in the power of sharing knowledge and supporting aspiring bakers, even offering troubleshooting assistance to those who reach out to him. Throughout the conversation, Fred reflects on his experience participating in the Christmas Cookie Challenge on Food Network. He recalls memorable moments, such as connecting with fellow competitors.  Fred's ability to create unique macaron shapes and achieve perfect shells on the show showcased his expertise and creativity in the baking world. To conclude the episode, Fred shares tips for aspiring macaron makers, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, patience, and practice. He encourages beginners to seek guidance from blogs, Instagram accounts, and educational resources. Fred's journey from scientist to pastry chef is a testament to the power of following one's passion, embracing creativity, and continuously learning and evolving in pursuit of a dream. You can find Fred by visiting https://www.instagram.com/doc_macaron https://docmacaron.com/   To check out the Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit www.cheerfulbaker.com