Today we’d like to introduce you to Renee Martinez.
Hi Renee, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a self taught cookie artist, I started when my kids were in school and the holidays were around the corner. I created different recipes so they could take cookie baskets gifts to their teachers, Then they wanted cookies for classmates and friends. Teachers started inquiring and they began to order for family and friends for different occasions. At this point I had to get my Food certification and educate myself on pricing, packaging and accounting of a small business. It was not easy, but I figured it out. During this time not too many people were custom cookie artist so the need and want was there.
As the time has changed and different options from recipes to design, I jumped on the wagon and never looked back. I have attended cookie cons , set up for Market Days and have met many cookie artist embracing the cookie people on my journey.
I’m in a good place today, I am a Cottage food Baker part time, and I enjoy being involved in my customers events and occasions. I have had many long-term customers and as I have grown, they have as well. I have many that I baked for them while they were in High School now married and parents and now baking for their kids events It brings me joy when they see my cookies and I see the smile on their faces.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being self taught is always a struggle but trial an error was my path. From icing consistency to pricing. I had to find my ninch which was not easy to gain trust and for me to have confidence I knew what I was doing. My kids were small so trying to care for them and work the business was a challenge.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I think my business is very home based and I try to keep my designs personal. I feel the personal touch is so much better then the high tech machines that can make the job easier but doesn’t allow the personal design and artist creativity.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
In my opinion its Marketing, remember some small businesses it’s a one person show so when holidays and big events are scheduled I have extra hands help with packing the cookies as I will work the details of Marketing.
Pricing:
- Basic cookie 27.00 a doz 1-2 colors
- detailed cookies 38.00 a doz 3-4 colors
- elaborate 45.00 a doz 5+ colors
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Bonappetreat.cookies
