We were lucky to catch up with Marquita Chanel recently and have shared our conversation below.

Marquita, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I think the first time I knew I wanted to do something creative professionally was when I was five. I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up and I said an artist. My mom loved arts and crafts and would take me to Michaels and Joann’s, so being around creativity was just part of my world. I didn’t really explore it seriously until much later when I took a cake decorating class at Michaels. That’s when I fell in love with baking. Over time I realized I was drawn to creating through baking moreso than cake decorating.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Back in 2011 I asked someone how they got into cake decorating and they suggested I take a class at Michaels. I tried it and loved it, but what really clicked for me was baking in general. I started experimenting with all kinds of recipes and soon began sharing what I was making on my food blog at the time, PinchMeTwice. I posted recipes, videos, and documented my whole learning process of everything I was baking.

A few years in I took a break, but during the pandemic I had more time and started posting my bakes on Instagram. People began asking me to ship my items mainly my cookies, and that’s how I started my cookie business and it really grew. I’ve been lucky to bake for so many people and build a loyal following along the way.

Recently I’ve decided to get back to my roots, by baking a variety of things and showing people how to make them themselves. What sets my work apart is the creativity and care I put into everything I make. I’m proud of the small community I’ve built and the joy my baking brings, and I want people to know that my work is all about sharing easy, delicious treats that anyone can enjoy!

Have you ever had to pivot?

I’m actually pivoting as we speak, and I think that’s something that never really stops whether in this industry or in life in general. With the way the economy is right now, people are looking for ways to save money and protect their disposable income. Buying cookies from me might not be at the top of their list, so I’ve shifted my focus to showing people how to bake and create something sweet at home themselves. It’s been a chance to get creative, connect with people in a new way, and keep my business relevant while still sharing what I love.

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

I built my audience because I was at the right place at the right time. The best advice I can give is to go where the people are. Just because a platform was popular when you started doesn’t mean it will stay that way, so you have to be open to learning and flexible, or you risk getting left behind. At the same time, be yourself. Trends are fine to follow, but there will always be people who connect with the unique thing only you can offer, and they will find you. Overall, the key is to be persistent and consistent. Show up, keep creating, and keep sharing your work.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/pinchmetwice
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@pinchmetwice
• Other: TikTok: PinchMeTwice

  Cookie Shop: http://pinchmetwice.company.site