We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mary Johnson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mary below.

Mary, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the best thing you’ve ever seen (or done yourself) to show a customer that you appreciate them?

I absolutely Love and Adore my customers, they trust me with their dessert palate and that’s a job I don’t take lightly. I show my customers appreciation by always baking their items fresh, even if that means I have to get up at 2 o’clock in the morning to bake just so they can have the best of my talents.

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

My name is Mary M. Johnson, and I am a vintage baker with a twist. The twist is that I bake a lot of desserts using alcohol—mostly bourbon and my persona is a 1950’s housewife. My love for sugar is how it all began. I started baking cupcakes for my coworkers at the local hospital where I worked. The sought-after cupcakes evolved into GurleyCakes, LLC, my baking business located in Cleveland, Oh.

Owning a small business while working a full-time job is challenging, but I would not have it any other way. I take pleasure in baking and catering for all of my clients, whether it be a mom that needs something for her child’s school or one of my formal corporate clients. My gratification comes when my clients take their first bite, and they are pleased with the results, my heart skips a beat.

Some examples of my menu items are Carrot Cake and German Chocolate cupcakes, ultimate chocolate chip, peanut butter, and sugar cookies. My specialty desserts come from my Prohibition line of cookies, which includes The Bourbon, The Bailey’s, and The Crown. These are unique, as most people have not heard of these type of cookies that are made with alcohol.

All of my products are freshly baked the day of the order or event. I value all of my clients and will always strive to make superb products that meet my clients’ criteria.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

I have grown my business strictly through word of mouth and GurleyCakes pop-up shops. A GurleyCakes Pop-up shop takes place in rented spaces in coffee shops and event venues. They are considered experiences that include mixologists and baristas that curate beverages to complement my desserts, fresh floral arrangements, and a positive atmosphere. The themes and menus change seasonally.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

A year ago I was hired to cater a large corporate event. There were over 600 dessert items along with beverages, fruit trays, décor, and setup. Less than 24 hours before the event, my client informed me that quite a few people contracted Covid. Everything needed to be packaged into treat boxes and delivered to several different departments. With quick thinking and action, I was able to accommodate the request. I received rave reviews from the client and the guests.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @GurleyCakes
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GurleyCakes

Image Credits
Drico Lamar Media Productions