Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Castro-Martha.
Michelle, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I migrated from Mexico nine years ago and started my bakery seven years ago. After working for corporate for several years and then starting a family I knew I wanted to do something to contribute to the household but at the same time, I wanted to be at home with my children. My mom used to be a baker years ago, so I learned the basics from her. I remember selling cupcakes in college to pay for my study trips and school materials, so I’ve always enjoyed baking.
After bringing some cupcakes to a family reunion my cousins started asking how much would I charge to make some for them, I was like no way, you’re kidding.. they’re like no we are not! you can sell these for sure! So they became my first customers, and since then the orders just keep coming in. We had to remodel our kitchen to keep up with demand. From one order a week we moved to ten orders a week…
Most of my customers find me because someone else recommended me, but social media helps a lot to get exposure and let people know more about you and your business.
Baking has become my passion, my therapy, my hobby. I’m grateful to be able to do something that I absolutely enjoy and still be able to stay with my girls.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It hasn’t been easy. Working at home has its challenges… You don’t disconnect from work that easily causes you to work where you live… also there’s the mental and physical exhaustion… it takes long hours of being on your feet… it takes the organization, planning, and a good memory. There have been some times when I do ask my self, is this all worth it? maybe I should just stop now… But then I see how far I’ve come, my daughters enjoy seeing my work, I know I’m being helpful economically too… and I am doing what I love, so yes, it is so worth it!
Tell us more about your business.
We are a home-based bakery, we specialize in decorated sugar cookies… Custom work for cakes and any kind of desserts but I would say my cookies are what makes me different from other bakers they have the attitude, yummy homemade flavor and they look cute!
All of my recipes are from scratch, people love that! And I always put special attention to my customer service. I know I’m not the only baker out there, so I want to give my customers the best service they can have!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
For me success is doing what you love, learning along the way… Success is thriving at what you’re doing… but also in my case… seeing happy customers is what is all about!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 619 313 8987
- Email: msquaredbakedgoods@gmail.com
- Instagram: msbakedgoods
- Facebook: M squared baked goods
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