Today we’d like to introduce you to Jodie Landers
Hi Jodie , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started baking from home in 2017 as a hobby with, at the time, my 2 year old daughter, Olivia (9). My daughter at the end of the day always says “Gimme Sugar mama”. This became what we called our little hobby, Gimme Sugar. This hobby quickly became a profession when locals would all me to do their cakes and desserts for special events. It gained so much popularity, I was forced to turn this “hobby” into a commercial space in December 2022 and have been thriving ever since.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would say it wasn’t always easy but I’ve been blessed with an incredible support system and community. I think the first few years, building something from scratch comes with it’s own hardships. Sure, the financial side isn’t always pretty and fluctuates but the support has remained strong. My customers loyalty is unwavering. I’m forever grateful for that. Without them, I could not keep my doors open. They give me full trust and respect. I couldn’t ask for more. I’ve worked 6 sometimes 7 days a week for years. This is at times pretty wearing. There aren’t really any “breaks” for small business owners like myself. You are on the clock 24/7. This has been a challenge. Trying to find a balance between the career that I love and the home life I am building. Otherwise, we are smooth sailing!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I feel I’m best when I am able to express my own creativity. My favorite cakes/desserts are the ones when they say “I trust you, do your thing!”. This sets me free on so many levels. This brings me absolutely joy. I love a good challenge, so I am always wanting to try a new technique or skill that pushes me and may be difficult at first to learn. This is how I feel I excel at my crafts. By fully challenging what I already feel I’ve mastered by doing something I’ve never done.
Wedding cakes will always have a special place to me. They are the most rewarding once I finish. It’s a small but very large part of a pivotal day in someone’s life. I love being a part of it. The sleek look to the modern cakes is so satisfying to me. I love the simplicity and beauty of wedding cakes. You may think these are the easiest but truthfully, the simple things are harder to hide imperfections. They must be perfect. I fall in love with the formal style.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory would probably be sitting around the dinner table with my family every night. This was before any cell phones or devices took anyone’s attention away. It was never an “extravagant” meal. Mama cooked what we had and we ate, really good actually. We all laughed, talked, cut up, sometimes cried, etc. But it was always beautiful. It is still my favorite thing about home -sitting at the table with my family and friends eating a meal. My family and my friends mean everything to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gimmesugardesserts.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gimmie.sugar/profilecard/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GHZB1xTZq/
