Today we’d like to introduce you to Jia Caruso.
Jia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Some of my fondest memories are of eating fortune cookie scraps from the bakery my mom worked at when we first immigrated to America. Some would say that I was destined to be in the food business, and after not so much convincing, I agreed!
I would bake occasionally for my husband’s office and family functions, but things didn’t get serious until 2020. Just on a whim, I thought it would be nice to offer care packages for friends to send to family they couldn’t visit because of the pandemic. I included different types of holiday cookies as well as biscuit mix for immediate families to make together.
I had no idea how interested people would be in my treats, so I was shocked when I had over 100 orders for holiday cookies that first year!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to be able to turn my hobby into a business, but I’ve had some challenges along the way.
Operating a Cottage Food Business at home is especially hard during the holidays because there just isn’t enough room!
Last Thanksgiving, I had trouble stacking and storing 40 plus pies for a day. Not to mention large cookie orders that typically take up every inch of the kitchen and dining room.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have always had a passion for being in the kitchen, but I am most known for my cake designs. Recently, I started venturing into custom cookie decorating and that has been a new and exciting challenge. I have an eye for detail and am passionate about my client’s projects because I love what I’m doing.
Something I am very proud of is how I’ve turned my hobby into a business and am able to give back. Every other month, I partner with OC Pom Rescue and provide baked goods to help raise funds for their non-profit. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to marry two of my favorite things, baking, and animal rescue.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Networking and getting your brand out there is very important. And what has worked well for me is just taking chances. I would not have the kind of success without also experiencing some failures. That has been the best teaching tool for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dirtynapkinblog.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirtynapkinblog
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dirtynapkinblog
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dirtynapkinblog
