Today we’d like to introduce you to Shaun Simmons.
Hi Shaun, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story with S&S Sensations by Shaun began long before the business existed. I grew up experimenting in the kitchen and cooking alongside my mother and grandmother, who taught me early on that food is one of the purest ways to show love. As a child, I loved decorating cakes and trying out new recipes just for the fun of it. In college, baking became my way of expressing love and appreciation for my friends—whether celebrating small wins or helping lift their spirits. It was never about escaping pressure; it was about sharing comfort, connection, and a little sweetness.
After graduation and beginning my teaching career, I stepped away from baking for some time. Everything changed when my grandmother surprised me with a KitchenAid mixer—the very same one I still use today. That thoughtful gift reignited my passion and planted the seed for what eventually became S&S Sensations by Shaun.
With extra time during my summers, I began refining my craft and recreating the nostalgic, old-fashioned cakes I grew up loving, adding my own “sensational” touch. What started as a heartfelt expression of love has grown into a business rooted in tradition, family, and the joy of making others feel special. S&S Sensations is truly an extension of how I show love—one dessert at a time.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
ke many small business owners, my journey hasn’t always been smooth. Balancing a full-time career in education while growing a baking business brought long nights, early mornings, and constant juggling. At times, keeping up with orders, perfecting recipes, and managing everything behind the scenes felt overwhelming.
I also learned to focus on the parts of baking I truly enjoy. As my skills grew, I realized that—even though I could make certain items—I didn’t enjoy creating them, and it wasn’t worth the added stress.
Earlier this year (2025), I stepped back and accepted fewer orders so I could grow in my full-time career and return to school. I was also dealing with carpal tunnel pain, which made it important to avoid more tedious, physically demanding work. Taking a break allowed me to prioritize my health while staying connected to the craft I love.
In addition to those aspects, there is also the hiccups you hit as a small business owner and especially as a cake baker and decorator. I have had some mishaps along the way such as trying to bake a cake and adapt the recipe to fit someone’s dietary restrictions and in turn having to pull an “all nighter” because I had to bake the cake 5 times before I found the recipe that work. Or the time I made a 3-tier wedding cake only for the bottom tier to collapse. Talk about feeling defeated. These are some of the worst moments. Where I have said I am never baking again and remembering mistakes happen and to learn from them.
As you know, we’re big fans of S&S Sensations by Shaun. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
S&S Sensations by Shaun is all about love, tradition, and truly delicious Southern-style cakes. I specialize in old-fashioned classics with my own “sensational” twist, focusing on simple, high-quality desserts that feel nostalgic and comforting. What sets my business apart is the heart behind it—baking has always been how I show love, and I pour that same care into every single order. I’m most proud that my brand has stayed authentic and centered on quality and connection. When you order from me, you’re getting more than a cake. You’re getting a piece of my story, my family, and the joy that inspired this business. My hope is that every bite feels warm, meaningful, and truly sensational. The artwork and passion I put into my decorating and cakes are my God-given talent, and it allows me to share my blessing with others.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is from when I was around 8 or 9. I would stay with my grandparents while my mother was working, and she usually dropped me off early in the morning. I would always ask my grandfather if I could bake, and he would give me the “okay.” I loved experimenting with making bread, and he was always my taste tester. My grandmother had taught me a recipe for making bread, and I would always try to take it one step further.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sensations-by-shaun.square.site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sands_sensations/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SandSensation/
