Today we’d like to introduce you to Steffany Contreras.
Hi Steffany, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From baking as a passion to building a thriving business, my journey began in 2022 with a single request. A colleague, who had tried my Alfajores and affectionately dubbed me the “Queen of Alfajores,” asked me to bake for her baby shower. Her belief in my baking was the spark that ignited everything.
That first batch of custom sugar cookies wasn’t just for an event; it was a turning point. The compliments from everyone were overwhelming, and their unanimous encouragement pushed me to turn my hobby into a business.
Since then, my client base has grown steadily, and I’m deeply grateful for the positive feedback and love I receive daily. My customers are more than just clients; they’ve become part of my extended family. This business is built on a foundation of trust and friendship, and that connection is the most rewarding part of it all.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My path to becoming a cookie entrepreneur was anything but a straight line. I started with zero experience in business or professional baking. I had to learn everything the hard way, and that meant making a lot of mistakes.
The initial hurdle was the legal side—figuring out licenses and regulations was a significant challenge. But the true test was in the kitchen. I battled with cookie designs, convinced they weren’t good enough. I spent late nights perfecting the right icing consistency, mastering oven temperatures, and learning new techniques. I also had to build an efficient system for managing orders, which was crucial for keeping the business running smoothly.
Ultimately, the biggest obstacle I faced was my own self-doubt. The lack of confidence at the start was difficult, but my husband was my rock. He’s my number one fan and the person who gave me the courage and consistency to keep going. He helped me see my own potential and reminded me of all the incredible things I’m capable of.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
While my passion for baking began with Peruvian alfajores and has since expanded to include other party sweets and even healthy granolas, my business is best known for its customized sugar cookies.
I believe every order deserves a personal touch. I approach each one as if I were creating it for myself. By connecting with my clients and listening to their vision, I can use my creative skills to propose and craft a design that is perfect for them. It’s more than just baking; it’s putting my art at their service.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
If you don’t believe in your product, no one else will. This is the first rule of entrepreneurship.
My advice for anyone starting out is to make it official and make it legal. I know this can feel overwhelming, and I wish I had more guidance at the beginning, but taking this step will make your business feel real. It’s the moment you know you’re on the right track.
Building positive relationships with your clients is also essential. For me, they’ve become an extended family, and their support is everything. Finally, remember to learn how to balance your work and personal life. Your passion should energize you, not burn you out.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sweeterlandbysteff.wixsite.com/sweeterlandbysteff
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweeterland_bysteff/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweeterlandbySteff/
Image Credits
I took all those pictures.
