We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chelsie Ward. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chelsie below.
Chelsie , appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
I believe that my passion for art plays a significant role in keeping my creativity alive when decorating cookies. I draw inspiration from various artistic sources and have an extensive artistic background. Additionally, being trusted with creative freedom in my work and experimenting with different techniques, colors, and designs helps me stay creative and continuously explore new ways to decorate cookies. I also try to stay updated on the latest trends in cookie decorating. But overall, my love for art fuels my creativity and motivates me to push boundaries and create unique designs.
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 am a 32-year-old wife and mother of four! Over the past six years, I have been managing my own cottage food business, “Custom Cookie Art,” that specializes in decorative sugar cookies. Being a mom motivates me everyday to provide for my family, and my desire to create pushes me even further! I really find joy in utilizing my artistic talents to produce edible works of art that bring happiness to my clients. I’m beyond blessed that my business gives me a platform to showcase my creativity and earn a living while also being present for my children, making each day fulfilling in both artistry and motherhood.
I’ve recently expanded my business with the addition of cookie cakes. They’ve been wildly popular among my audience!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my experience as a small business owner over the past 6 years, I’d have to say the three most important qualities and/or other areas of knowledge I find most valuable are a passion for art, creativity, and determination.
My Love for art allows me to create unique and visually appealing designs, while my creativity helps me think outside the box and come up with innovative ideas. For someone like me, without a previous business background, having perseverance and determination while navigating through the first years as a business owner was crucial in overcoming challenges and setbacks along the way. There were a lot of “oopsies” in the early days. Eventually you get the hang of it.
To those starting out on their entrepreneurial journey in this field, I recommend nurturing their creativity, staying committed to their craft, never giving up and to learn from your mistakes. Focus on building a solid foundation in art and design, practice to improve skills, and draw inspiration from various sources to help set them apart in a very competitive market. Remember, success takes time and effort, but with determination and a strong work ethic, anything is possible.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
That’s a tough one, there are so many that have contributed in various ways to my success.
First and foremost, God. This career was placed in my path at a time in my life when I needed it the most. It was definitely an answered prayer.
My husband Jacob, for his unwavering support. Balancing my role as a wife and mother while I was pursuing an uncertain career in decorative cookies required a lot of patience and determination. My husband has been my rock, providing both emotional and practical support throughout this journey. His belief in my abilities and constant encouragement has played a pivotal role in these last 6 years. His understanding and willingness to share the everyday life responsibilities has allowed me to focus on my passion and excel in a competitive field. I am grateful for his continuous support and the role he has played in my growth and success.
My cookie friends. There are so many other “cookiers” I’ve met or spoken to in this field over the last 6 years. A lot of us were all starting out at the same time, when cottage licenses for our state were first made legal, and this market really took off. Being able to talk to others working through the same struggles was a huge weight lifted.
My family and friends, who were some of my very first orders! Their support, though somewhat hesitant at first, helped spread the word about my business. To this day, many of them still can’t believe how far I’ve come.
My clients. I am incredibly thankful to my clients for their support and loyalty, as they are the ones who have kept my business booming over the years. Their positive feedback and word-of-mouth recommendations have been invaluable to me. I am committed to continuously honing my craft and offering the best possible service to them. I look forward to many more years of sweet success in the form of “Custom Cookie Art”.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/custom_cookie_art?igsh=MzBvZHJoOHRhZmg3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/customcookieart?mibextid=ZbWKwL
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