Today we’d like to introduce you to Molly Blakeley

Hi Molly , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

My journey began in a small Alaskan town with just 3,000 people, where I was a single mom struggling to make ends meet. But I refused to give up! With only $150 to my name, I had to get creative to feed my son. That’s when I started baking gourmet cookies, and before I knew it, I was selling 20 boxes a week to locals. But then, something amazing happened – demand skyrocketed to 45 boxes a DAY! I started supplying local coffee shops and restaurants, and soon, I had to move my production into a church. As my business grew, I had to adapt, and before long, I was working with clients in Anchorage. I took the leap and moved to the big city, hiring my first bakery to help me keep up with demand. And then, something incredible happened – I went from one bakery to FOUR in just one year! But I knew I needed to scale even further. That’s when I discovered co-packers, and after countless calls and rejections, one finally said yes! My perseverance paid off, and in 2021, I launched nationally on QVC. From there, my business took off! I landed big-box stores, and my cookies were featured in gifting suites for the Oscars, Emmys, and Grammys. I even got to see my logo on the Wheel of Fortune wheel! The Food Network called me a trendsetter for 2024, and I’m still pinching myself. We just launched in eight more big-box stores, including Walmart, World Market, and Five Below. We’re also partnering with airlines and expanding our reach. From a single mom in a small town to a national brand with several hundred employees and six co-packers, it’s been a wild ride. But I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I’m living proof that with determination and hard work, your dreams can become a reality.”

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

Oh woOkay, let’s get real – it’s easy to talk about the wins, but what about the struggles? Growing a business at lightning speed can be like trying to drink from a firehose (but in a good way… mostly). When I first started, I faced some serious rejection – pitch competitions in Alaska? Forget about it! No investors wanted to take a chance on me. They were focused on AI and Tech companies…
But, you know what? My friends and family saw something special and stepped up to the plate. And guess what? We’re CRUSHING it! We’re talking 400% growth in 2024, and 2025 is looking even brighter. Sure, it’s a challenge, but it’s the kind of problem I LOVE having. Bring it on, growth spurt! I’m ready for whatever comes next

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

We’re not just a gourmet cookie company – we’re a movement! Our individually wrapped and mini bite-size treats in pouches are taking the USA by storm, introducing the most wild, fun, and weird flavors that are totally on trend! But what really sets us apart is our DREAM TEAM! I’m beyond grateful to work alongside an incredible group of talented individuals who bring my vision to life. My rockstar team includes the unstoppable Frank Alfieri, our VP extraordinaire; the brilliant Emily De Sosa, our CMO; the creative genius Brianna Whalen, our content creator and photographer; my own daughter, the marketing whiz Emerald Adams; and the financial wizard Richard Cohen, our CFO! Together, we’re unstoppable! I’m the idea generator, but it’s my team that makes magic happen. We’re growing faster than ever, and it’s an absolute blast! We’re spreading joy, one delicious cookie at a time, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?

Authenticity, humility, and honesty are the keys to true success. And it’s not just about the product – it’s about the people, too! When we stay grounded and genuine, we build meaningful connections that uplift and inspire others. I’ve seen too many people let power and fame go to their heads, but that’s not the kind of energy I want to surround myself with. Every person I meet is important, regardless of their background or profession. Whether you’re a rock star or a janitor, you’re worthy of love, respect, and connection. My purpose is to be approachable, to inspire others to chase their dreams, and to spread joy – one delicious cookie at a time!

Pricing:

• N/a

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.mollybz.com
• Instagram: @mollybzcookies
• Facebook: @mollybz
• LinkedIn: Mollyblakeley
• Youtube: Mollyblakeley

Image Credits

Cookie photos are Jodi Friedman photography.
Photos of me are: Artistic Puppy