Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Varble.
Hi Taylor, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started The Mixing Bar during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. At the time, like many others, I was looking for a way to pivot and find a new direction in life. After spending years working in various bakeries and honing my skills, I decided to take a risk and start my own business, working from home and launching it under my own name. It was a big leap, especially during such uncertain times, but I knew I was ready to pursue my passion for baking and create something truly special.
In the beginning, I worked full-time at Amazon while slowly getting my name out there. I took on small orders, shared my work on social media, and built relationships with customers and other local wedding professionals. It was hard work, but it paid off. After about 8 months of balancing my job and growing the business, I finally reached the point where I could take the plunge and leave my Amazon job behind to focus on The Mixing Bar Bakery full-time.
Since then, it’s been an incredible journey. My business has grown, and I’ve been fortunate to be a part of so many special celebrations, creating beautiful cakes and desserts for weddings and other events. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited about the future as I continue to build my brand and share my love of baking with even more people.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh, my goodness! This has been the hardest thing I have ever done! Honestly, without the love and support of my husband, family and friends, I wouldn’t be able to do what I love every single day. They push me to be the best that I can be and help me every step of the way. Owning a business has many challenges, but I would say financial has been the hardest part. I’ve pretty much put my entire life into this, and It’s been challenging starting out during a time when cakes weren’t a necessity during covid. But I believed in myself, and I know if I put enough effort in, that I could bring this business to places I’ve never seen before.
We’ve been impressed with The Mixing Bar, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At The Mixing Bar Bakery, I bring a passion for creating beautiful and delicious wedding cakes. After earning my Baking and Pastry Arts degree from Sullivan University in 2015, I honed my skills working at various bakeries, discovering my true love for designing wedding cakes. I pride myself on crafting creations that are not only visually stunning but also bursting with unique and delightful flavors. My commitment to perfection means I ensure every cake is an exquisite blend of taste and beauty, no matter the occasion. I’m proud to be a part of people’s special celebrations and look forward to continuing to create memorable wedding cakes that exceed expectations.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is my family. When I started my business, my main priority was to be able to spend more time with my mother, who had been diagnosed with cancer. I wanted to be there for her during such a challenging time, and starting my own business allowed me the flexibility to do that. Family has always been at the center of my life, and I will protect them at all costs. My husband is my best friend and my rock. He works tirelessly to provide for me and our three boys (Dogs of course, haha!), and without his unwavering support, I wouldn’t be able to continue doing what I love. He believes in me and my dreams, and he’s been by my side every step of the way. I’m incredibly grateful for him and our family. They give me the strength to keep moving forward. At the end of the day, it’s my loved ones who drive me to create and do my best in everything I do. I truly just want to make them all proud.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.themixingbar.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themixingbar/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMixingBarLouisville