We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Christine Brisse a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Christine, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today The more we talk about good leadership the more we think good leadership practices will spread and so we’d love for you to tell us a story about the best boss you’ve had and what they were like or what they did that was so great?

I have worked for some incredible people, but I was truly blessed the day I started working for Sandy Lim. Sandy was my most impactful boss due to her unwavering faith in me when others wouldn’t take a chance. As the GM of a corporate catering company, she convinced the executive chef to hire me despite my lack of hands-on experience. Sandy’s guidance and belief in my potential allowed me to climb the ranks within the company, and her teachings on professionalism, customer service, and hard work have left a lasting impact on my culinary career. I owe much of my success to her mentorship and the opportunities she provided. Her respect for me has been a great example for how employees should be treated.

Christine, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hi! I’m Christine, the proud owner of Cake Mitten Bake Shop.

My journey has been shaped by a series of challenges, an intricate tapestry that reflects the resilience instilled in me from a young age. Growing up in the vibrant city of Detroit for the first 14 years of my life, my family faced financial limitations, yet we managed to have enough to get by. From early on, I harbored a profound inclination towards a creative path. Rooted in my mother’s passion for baking and my father’s artistic talents, I envisioned merging these influences, a dream that gained momentum when I decided to pursue culinary arts at the Art Institute.

The initial goal wasn’t always to own a bakery, but life’s trajectory shifted when my mother’s battle with cancer intensified. Three years ago, with a sense of purpose and determination, I eagerly embraced the keys to my bakery. The urgency to open stemmed from a deep desire for my mom to witness the realization of the dream we had shared. Her attendance at the grand opening, despite the challenges she faced, became a poignant and cherished memory—the last time she left her home. Almost all the recipes gracing the walls of Cake Mitten Bake Shop are hers, a tangible testament to the precious moments we spent perfecting them together.

This journey isn’t just about running a bakery; it’s an ode to overcoming adversity, a dedication to the creative spirit instilled in me, and a profound tribute to the unwavering love and influence of my mother. As I navigate this entrepreneurial path, I carry with me the strength derived from those early struggles and the enduring inspiration provided by my mother’s enduring legacy.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Absolutely! The first five years I didn’t take social media as seriously as I should have. Small businesses really benefit from using social media platforms, even though keeping up with them can be time-consuming, especially with the ever-changing algorithms. As a baker, I often find myself with just a few spare moments to quickly post pictures of our cakes, but hey, it’s better than nothing, right? One tip I’d love to share is that if you find the time, try to infuse your posts with your unique personality. It really helps to capture people’s attention and make your business stand out!

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Referrals from our loyal customers are truly the lifeline of our business. While social media certainly helps us attract new clients, there’s something truly special about being referred by someone who genuinely loves our products. It’s like receiving a stamp of approval from a trusted friend or family member, which not only brings in new business but also fosters a sense of trust and credibility. We prioritize nurturing these relationships with our customers, knowing that their satisfaction and advocacy are invaluable assets to our success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cakemitten.com
• Instagram: @cakemitten
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cakemitten?mibextid=sCpJLy

Image Credits
Photos by Liv in the Moment Photography