Today we’d like to introduce you to Jackie Ruesink.
Hi Jackie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up in a family of foodies and started baking very early on in my life and it’s just always been a part of my life in some way. In 2016 I realized all the years baking with my family gave me more skills and baking instinct than the average home baker and thought maybe I’d try out a home bakery side hustle alongside my corporate job. I did that off and on over the years and then in 2023 I started seeing the writing on the wall that I probably wouldn’t make it past the next round of layoffs and decided to actually commit to a home bakery just in case. I officially launched Happy Hippo Bakery in November of 2023 (thankfully because my instincts were correct and I was laid off in January 2024). It’s been a blessing to get to experiment and build my menu with my preschool-aged son at home as my Chief Taste Tester. I don’t consider myself much of an entrepreneur so it’s been a journey of truly trying new things and seeing what sticks and what flops (lots of flops in 2024). Thankfully, I have built a small crew of dedicated customers who have carried me through this journey. Especially now when food prices are as high as they are, it’s incredibly special and meaningful when people choose to support my bakery! So grateful!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. I’ve been really finding the balance of valuing my time while trying to become more efficient with my baking time, as well as juggling being a one-woman show – marketing, social media, email lists, actually baking – it’s a lot! I spent a lot of time in 2024 vending at markets and learned over the course of the year that for a bakery, that’s not the most profitable move, even though it really did help me get my name out in the community. I drastically cut back on markets in 2025 and have found a much better balance there. My struggle in my second year of business (2025) has really been the seasonality of baking. February, May, September, October, November, December are all slammed months with various holidays, birthdays, and events happening while the rest of the year is much slower so I’m excited to explore some new opportunities in 2026 to help combat that.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My bakery is a small-batch, home-based business in Hutto where I focus on unique flavors and handmade pantry staples like my homemade vanilla extract and graham cracker pancake mix. I’m best known for my Salted Vanilla Toffee cookies that really represent my whole approach to baking: high-quality ingredients, thoughtful flavors, and everything made with intention in my kitchen right here in Hutto.
What sets my bakery apart is that everything I make is meant to feel both special and accessible. I want families to enjoy high-quality baked goods without the stress of making everything from scratch, and many of my products are designed to support that. I have mixes that kids can help with, pantry items that elevate simple recipes, and seasonal treats that make holidays feel warm and memorable. I’m a huge believer in getting kids into the kitchen early, and a lot of what I create is meant to help families slow down, bake together, and share something delicious.
Above all, I’m proud that this brand I’ve created feels personal and community-driven. When I do markets outside of Hutto, people immediately know where I’m based because of my cute hippo logo which is really fun. I genuinely love knowing my bakes help make everyday moments in my community a little sweeter. I want readers to know that when they support my bakery, they’re supporting a local maker who truly cares about bringing handmade, high-quality food to Hutto (and surrounding areas) and helping families make memories in the kitchen.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t believe in luck – good or bad. I believe in a sovereign God who directs my steps and gives me the grace, strength, and creativity to do what I do. Every part of my business, from the opportunities that come my way to the obstacles I’ve had to work through, has been shaped by His timing, His provision, and His faithfulness, not chance.
When things have gone well, I see that as God opening doors I couldn’t have opened myself. When things have been hard, I’ve learned to trust that He’s using those moments to grow me, not punish me. My business is ultimately His, and I just get the joy of stewarding it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.happyhippobakery.com
- Instagram: @happy.hippo.bakery
Image Credits
Tiffany Chapman, Tiffany Chapman Photography
