Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley Nicks. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ashley, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?
I hope my legacy will be an example of traditions, family love, uncompromising integrity, quality products, and top tier service. My daughter, Zoei has goals of becoming a professional baker and business owner like Mom. We’re always watching cake decorating videos on YouTube, and baking together. We’ve also talked about what our bakeries will be like. She’s dreaming of an interactive pastry shop in New York, whereas I’m looking to contribute to the Southern hospitality in Georgia.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m a wife and mother of four. Currently I am a Licensed Insurance Agent for a large insurance company, in addition to being CEO of 4Z Sweets in Indianapolis, Indiana that was founded10/09/2022. Growing up I always had a passion for baking. During Christmas and Thanksgiving I loved helping my Aunt make Lemon Poundcake and Sweet Potato Pie. As I grew into my teenage years that was my favorite holiday job, to make the sweets. In High School I took Home Economics, which was great. I would make Sugar Cookies from scratch every Sunday for extra credit points lol!
As time went on, I became more interested in cupcakes. I personally love cupcakes because I see them as a blank canvas. I can use unique flavors and creative tools to craft extra tasty treats. In addition to a variety of cupcake sizes and flavors, we provide cupcake jars, and specialty cakes. What sets 4Z Sweets apart from others is our flavor choices, product quality, and overall value for the money spent. My proudest moment, so far has been competing in The Greatest Baker Competition this year. I placed 8th in the Semifinals, however we raised over $6,000 for the Andrew McDonough B+ (Be Positive) foundation, an amazing foundation that supports families and childhood cancer research. I was truly blessed to be apart of such a wonderful cause.
I want 4Z Sweets’ supporters to know that when they purchase from us, they’re helping to build a dream and enjoying a treat made from the heart.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
The best source of new clientele has been free samples lol and customer recommendations. I’m learning that as I’m building my business and customer base, giving a few cupcakes away for free is a great way to win a potential customer over. I believe in the quality, so I know 2-3 free cupcakes today could yield 1-2 dozen cupcakes purchased tomorrow.
As always a satisfied customer will recommend you, when people think cupcakes I want 4Z Sweets to immediately come to mind.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
The journey to becoming a small business owner has not been easy at all. I’ve made decisions that at the time seemed great, but later I discovered it was a financial or business mistake. I’ve had months with 3-5 custom orders, and I’ve had months with 0-1 custom orders. I’m able to continue to be resilient and continue to enjoy the journey because I genuinely love baking. I have the support of my husband, children, and extended family. I appreciate the constructive feedback, the extra time with my daughter, and the smiles on my clients faces. I’m also encouraged by the fact, I know 4Z Sweets will be big!
Contact Info:
- Website: 4zsweets.square.site
- Instagram: @4zsweets
- Facebook: 4Z Sweets
- Other: 4zsweets1@gmail.com
Image Credits
Ryan Nicks