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

Kelly, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Day to day the world can seem like a tough place, but there’s also so much kindness in the world and we think talking about that kindness helps spread it and make the world a nicer, kinder place. Can you share a story of a time when someone did something really kind for you?

This past year has truly been the toughest year i have ever experienced. My husband passed away unexpectedly in April. When I had announced that I was not going to be working for a bit and told everyone what happened, i found out how amazing my customers are. I had dinners dropped off at my door, flowers delivered, and so many amazing letters sent to me and my children. Life for me was a blur, but it was the kindest thing that really mattered the most to me. The customers I serve in my community really help me keep going.

Kelly, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Kelly and I own and operate Taste Buds LLC. I started my journey in July of 2017 while I was still working a full time job as a meat cutter. I started off selling macarons and cupcakes to coworkers. I then joined a few farmers markets to see if people other than coworkers enjoyed what i made. To my surprise, people enjoyed what i was making! In November 2018, I quit my job and became a full-time certified home baker. Having two young children at home, I was able to do more for them that did not require other people having to watch my girls.
I currently make French macarons, hand-painted decorated sugar cookies, custom cakes, Cupcakes, and other various desserts. My mom, Maureen Carter, also helps in my business. She is the person behind custom aprons I offer. She makes each apron herself. All are reversible and adjustable. We have a perfect team, I bake and she sews!

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

Word-of-mouth! I feel like I have amazing customers who always spread the word and send their friends, family, and coworkers to order celebration cakes, cookies, macarons ect. from me. I appreciate the word of mouth and reviews left from everyone.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

My business had to change this past April when my husband passed away. I went from having an extra person in the house to help with everyday things to just myself taking care of my young children (and online schooling), the daily housework, yard work, pets, and still maintain working from home. Im still working out all the details in my life and business, but I have found a bit of a balance. I have had to cut down a bit on how many custom orders I can take per week, but I try to have a pop-up event at my house during the holidays or at least once a month so my customers can still get some desserts from me while I am not at markets anymore.

Contact Info:

• Website: TasteBudsAZ.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/taste_buds_llc
• Facebook: Facebook.com/kellycarrollcookies