Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley Fajardo . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Ashley , thanks for joining us today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?

I think some of the most unexpected problems I’ve faced has to have been during the entirety of the Covid-19 Pandemic. It was such an unknown and difficult time for us all as human beings losing loved ones, the fear and anxiety of the sickness and the challenges we would face as small business owners. We went through a chocolate shortage at one point, eggs were literally Bananas! Shortages and delays on supplies. Once the Stay at home orders went into effect, I was determined to see my business not only survive but succeed. I saw a rise of clients inquiring and ordering desserts for smaller more intimate parties and celebrations. I threw myself out there challenging myself to make myself stand out in a highly competitive industry.

Some of my most favorite desserts were created during this time, Chocolate Rose Towers, custom gift boxes, and various Mini Desserts such as Churro Cheesecakes, Tres Leches, Cheesecake Shooters and a variety of new cupcake flavors. I started putting work into the social aspect of the business and soon after we started doing Pop-up Shops. I pride myself into pouring love into each order that i create and although it was a rough period adjusting to a new Normalcy it was the breaking point that I needed to push me into truly creating Sprinkle Junkies.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Ashley, I’m the owner of Sprinkle Junkies. I run a small business making specialty desserts and all occasion sweets. My passion for baking began when i was a kid, i’ve been baking for about roughly 21 years. I started this business in 2013 under CaliCakery custom sweets as just part time work, but soon after the business started growing from word of mouth. In 2017 I went official and I changed the name of my business to Sprinkle Junkies and went full time with my business. It gives me the ability to have work life balance with my Kids and My Husband who also helps run the business. He’s the heavy lifter and honestly the best business partner I could have. My love and passion for baking comes from My mom, she would let me create all kinds of things in the kitchen and the passion and love bloomed from there. When i bake and create something I pour love and creativity into each order. I want the ultimate goal to be tasting each bite and fill you with happiness. I want my clients and potential clients to know that we offer a variety of desserts and gift baskets or boxes each order is always Sprinkled with Love.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Right before the Pandemic hit, I was struggling heavily with Depression and and my outlet was baking. I took the obstacles head on, with the love and passion I have for baking and turned it into something positive and beautiful. During the height of the Pandemic, I was moved to how many clients were reaching out and the stories behind the intimate celebrations they were holding. For some it was the birth of a child, a small wedding, birthday, Holidays and even some celebrations of life. Celebrations were being had in smaller groups without the ability of family to be present. I had a client one Christmas Ill never forget who ordered like 4 dozen Hot Cocoa bombs to distribute at there loved ones door steps so they could hop on a zoom together and have Cocoa on Christmas Morning. I was both Honored to be apart of these moments, but it also brought me healing knowing I was able to bring some joy out of these moments for my clients. That is honestly why I do this, A small act of kindness goes a long way and I bake with every ounce of Love.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

I think the most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been sampling my products. Whenever I try something new or have ideas for a holiday sale I always make samples and distribute them to Neighbors, Family, Friends, Businesses and growing my business through word of mouth. I like to get the opinions of the those in the community. I also started networking with other small businesses and attending Pop up locations to get the taste of Sprinkle Junkies out there. Marketing on social Media has also been a huge strategy, who sees a mouth watering dessert and doesn’t want one!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @SprinkleJunkies
• Other: [email protected]