Today we’d like to introduce you to Wendy Melander
Hi Wendy, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
When my children were young, I started a small business cleaning houses and baked pies on the side. While my cleaning business was a blessing, my real passion is sharing my pies with others. Over the years, I’ve gone from selling my pies to friends and neighbors to becoming a vendor at many local farmers’ markets and events. Transitioning from one business to another has been challenging, but the feedback I receive from my customers and my love of baking pies encourages me daily.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As I have transitioned to my pie business, I find the biggest struggle is managing the logistics of the business – obtaining permits/licenses, scheduling events, marketing, and ordering supplies are some of the main difficulties I’ve had to overcome.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Baking pies is a labor of love, and making everything from scratch using real, fresh ingredients is what I am known for. Apple pie is one of my specialties and my peach pie is a seasonal favorite. Holidays are always busy, but vendor events are a big part of my work. I love meeting new folks and learning about others’ favorite pies and the memories associated with them. I am most proud of the steps I have taken to expand the selection of pies and pastries I offer.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I do not like to take major risks, but I do enjoy experimenting and trying new things. I’ve experimented with customizing my pies to meet customers’ personal preferences and expectations and to adjust to dietary restrictions or allergies. I’ve also learned to make gluten-free friendly alternatives.
Pricing:
- $30 Fresh Homemade Pie
- $8 Frozen Pie Pop (Key Lime / Peanut Butter)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: wendyspiessc
- Facebook: wendyshomemadepies
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-melander-995a496b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
