Meet Grace Pearsall

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Grace Pearsall. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Grace below.

Grace, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I have no formal training. I didn’t go to pastry school and I’m not classically taught in sugar art or baking science. For a long time, that made me feel like I wasn’t “allowed” to call myself a cake artist. I was just someone who loved working with my hands- and happened to stumble upon cake as a canvas.

But over time I realized something- talent might spark curiosity, but obsession fuels mastery.

Years ago I heard a quote from Conor McGregor that has really stuck with me, he said, “There is no talent here. This is hard work. This is an obsession.” That lit something in me because that’s exactly how I feel about what I do.

I’m completely obsessed with creating- with taking an idea and turning it into something beautiful, edible and meaningful. Whether it’s a wedding cake covered in delicate piping or a unique tea bomb that looks more like an ornament than something you’d ever think you’d be able to drink- I pour everything I have into this passion of mine. This isn’t just a business. It’s how I express joy, creativity and connection.

Imposter syndrome still whispers sometimes. But then I look at what I’ve created with my own two hands- what I’ve taught myself through thousands of hours of practice, trial and error, passion and obsession- and I know I’ve earned my place here.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I create custom cakes and artisan tea bombs that are designed to make moments feel extra memorable- whether it’s a wedding, celebration or just a cozy cup of tea. Aside from custom orders I really love being part of the St. Louis pop-up market scene, where I get to connect with other small business owners and share our handmade work with the community. I’ve been doing cakes for a long time (12 years, approximately) but the tea bombs are still a relatively new creation. I’m heading into my third year of offering the tea bombs and one of my goals is to partner with a local tea company and be able to incorporate locally sourced blends into my creations!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, I think the three most impactful things in my journey have been: embracing failure, surrounding myself with supportive people and connecting with others who share the same passion.

“Practice makes perfect” sounds cliché, but it’s said for a reason because, honestly, it’s true! You have to be willing to do something bad before you can do it well. Don’t be afraid to fail!

Second, having people around you who encourage you- whether they fully understand your craft or not- can make all the difference. The right kind of support doesn’t just cheer you on; it reminds you of your “why” on the hard days and stays in your corner no matter what.

Finally, find others who are also interested in what you love. Being able to bounce ideas off of fellow creatives, troubleshoot and celebrate wins together is so important! Community over competition, always.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I step away. Rest, reset and turn my focus to something else for a little while. Giving myself that space helps me come back with a clearer mind and the energy to face what once felt too big to handle.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.withloveandgracecakes.com
• Instagram: @withlove_andgrace
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/withloveandgrace.desserts
• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits

Virginia Harold, Esther Lens