Through her love of baking, Natasha Harris owner of Suga Mumma Bakes has created a successful online custom cookie box business. Natasha ships her stunning cookie box creations all over Australia, supplying to both corporate and private customers.
1. How did your sweets business or journey begin?
Growing up I always had a love for baking, something I learned from my grandparents who live in Germany.
My hobby turned into a business when I had my first child and I was on maternity leave. I had a lot of time on my hands and was yearning for an outlet where I could be creative. It started with an Instagram account where I would post my baked goods, baking for family and friends and then it kind of took off from there.
I was so invested in trying new things and developing my skills that my business has grown from baking for a local market to selling custom cookie boxes Australia-wide.
2. What has starting your own business meant for you?
For me, it's about interaction, relationships and creativity. I have connected with some amazing people through my business and nothing gives me more joy than bringing someone's vision to life.
It took me a little while to find my own niche in the baking world. I love having such an impact on others when they receive their custom cookie boxes because they are so personalised. Now more than ever with COVID-19 Suga Mumma Bakes gift boxes are a great way to tell someone how much you miss and love them, it's a way to stay connected when we can't physically see each other. I'm super proud that Suga Mumma Bakes is helping people around Australia stay connected.
3. What have been/are the biggest challenges you face(d) in regard to starting/building/maintaining your business?
Having never run a business before so this was all new to me, but the one thing that has kept me going is the passion I have for what I do. There have been many late nights, tears, starting over, trips to the shops last minute, recipes not working, many MANY failed macarons, names spelt wrong on cakes, cakes cracking. You name it.