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

Hi Heather, thanks for joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Like so many small business owners, I really stumbled into the business world on accident! I’m a very creative person, and I have always enjoyed baking, so when I took a cookie decorating class, something just clicked. I knew immediately that this was something I enjoyed and I was also naturally adept at, and I wanted to pursue it further. I began experimenting with different recipes and techniques in my kitchen, and sometimes posted photos of what I was making to my social media pages. After a few weeks I got my first order, and the rest is history.

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?

Yes, of course! I’m Heather, the face behind Blue Dot Bake Shoppe. I specialize in custom decorated sugar cookies, and I have made everything from Dolly Parton themed to Stranger Things, my cookies have even been to the Super Bowl! I take pride in my work, and I am so thankful for every customer that allows me to be part of their special event. I am a believer and a mom of three, and my kids were a huge reason for starting this business! Being able to work from home on a flexible schedule, while also bringing in an income has been such a blessing for our family.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Just like everyone, I started out with zero followers on social media. Now I’m over 4,000 on all platforms. My advice is to not worry too much about your numbers, but to think about who you’re talking to. In order to connect with your followers, it’s important to show them who you are as a person. We are humans first, then we are business owners and consumers. Stay humble and authentic.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

I gain most of my new clients from social media and word of mouth. One of the beautiful things about being a cookie artist is that my treats are at lots of major milestones- weddings, birthdays, retirement parties, etc., and when you see a cute and tasty cookie, someone will always ask, “where did these come from?”. One of my favorite things is having those repeat customers who I get to bake for, first the Bridal shower, then the wedding, then an anniversary, then a baby shower and first birthdays! It’s such a fun job.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @BlueDotBakeShoppe
• Facebook: @BlueDotBakeShoppe

Image Credits
Brittany Kay Photography