Sugar Coated Dreams Lauren Jacobs

 




In this lively and engaging interview, Arlene Chua, the talented cookie decorator and owner of Chua Cookie, shares her fascinating journey from immigrating to the USA from the Philippines at a young age to becoming a senior treasury analyst on Wall Street. Arlene's infectious passion for cookie decorating emerged unexpectedly in the face of personal challenges, leading her to create stunning edible artworks. From her delightful cookie designs, including iconic wedding dresses, to her successful business ventures, Arlene exemplifies resilience and creativity. The conversation delves into her experiences on Food Network's Christmas Cookie Challenge and Gingerbread Showdown, offering insights into the world of competitive baking. Throughout the interview, Arlene's down-to-earth personality and genuine love for her craft shine, making for an inspiring and delightful chat.




You can find Arlene on Instagram at www.instagram.com/
and her website is
www.chuacookie.com
 

Ashlee, the founder of Sweet Dough Cookie Co., shared her inspiring journey from a self-taught baker to a successful cookie decorator on the "Sugar Coated Dreams" podcast. She started baking cakes at just 13, but it was a request to make cookies for a bachelorette party that ignited her cookie decorating passion. Despite early mistakes, Ashlee's talent flourished, and she soon found herself making cookies for college students in Washington. Eventually, she transitioned to cookies full-time and opened her own brick-and-mortar shop.
Her story resonates with the idea that passion can strike at any age, and her journey from a tiny apartment kitchen to a thriving business is a testament to her determination. Ashlee also discusses her experience on the Food Network's Christmas Cookie Challenge, where she won not once but twice, showcasing her competitive spirit and creative cookie decorating style. She also shares her love for teaching cookie decorating classes, emphasizing that you don't need to be a "perfect" decorator to teach – just a good understanding of the basics. Her philosophy is that classes are about having fun, learning a new skill, and enjoying quality time with friends or loved ones.
Ashlee's story is a testament to following your passion, taking risks, and never giving up on your dreams.
You can find Ashlee at
https://sweetdoughcookieco.com
or on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sweetdough.cookieco/
Learn more about The Cheerful Box here
https://cheerfulcutters.com/products/the-cheerful-box-sugar-cookie-cutter-kit
 
 

 

 






In this exciting episode of Sugarcoated Dreams, we are joined by the dynamic duo, Mike and Karen Summers, the creative minds behind Cookie Con, one of the most anticipated events in the baking community. With over a decade of experience running this event, they share the story of how it all began on a plane ride to Salt Lake City, where the idea of bringing cookie enthusiasts together was born.
Karen, a talented cookie decorator with a passion for the craft, started her journey in the culinary world, inspired by her love for baking and artistic flair. Mike, always her biggest supporter, transitioned from web development to helping her build an online store for cookie decorating supplies. As they reflect on their humble beginnings, from running the business out of a small room in their house to moving into a warehouse, it's clear that their dedication and hard work laid the foundation for Cookie Con's success.
The episode also delves into the challenges they faced as their event grew, highlighting the complexities of maintaining the unique and intimate experience that defines Cookie Con while accommodating a larger audience. Their story is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and community in the baking world, leaving listeners inspired and eager to learn more about the exciting world of cookies. Don't miss this fascinating glimpse into the origins of Cookie Con and the sweet journey of the Summers duo!
Learn more about Cookie Con by visiting
www.cookiecon.com

Rebecca, the creative force behind The DociaMack, shares a truly inspiring journey into the world of cookie decorating. With a desire to stand out and a family legacy to draw from, she crafted the unique name The DociaMack, rooted in her great-great-grandparents' nicknames. Her talent blossomed after making Halloween cookies for the first time, and her dedication led her to win the Halloween Cookie Challenge on Food Network. Rebecca's story showcases the power of perseverance, self-discovery, and the ability to turn a passion into a fulfilling career. Her advice to newcomers in the field is simple yet invaluable: take your time, be kind to yourself, and avoid the trap of comparison. Rebecca's story is a testament to how creative journeys can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.

Join us for a sweet journey on 'Sugar Coated Dreams' as we chat with the incredible Merideth Glasco, the creative genius behind LCW Cookie Cutters. Merideth shares her inspiring story of turning her artistic passions into a thriving business in the baking world. From her musical and artistic family background to her unexpected transition from pre-med to the world of cookies, you'll be captivated by her journey. Learn how she ventured into the world of cookie cutters and what sets her high-quality cutters apart. Plus, discover her tips for content creation and the power of showing your face on Instagram. It's an episode filled with creativity and entrepreneurship that you won't want to miss!
You can find Meredith on IG at
www.instagram.com/lcwcookiecutters
For more information about The Cheerful Box Cookie Decorating Kit visit
www.cheerfulcutters.com
 

Exciting news, friends! We have a superstar in the baking community with us on today's episode.  I am thrilled to bring you Brian Hoffman of Hoffman Media and Bake From Scratch Magazine.  
Brian has an incredible story to share, from his early baking adventures to an unexpected career shift that led him to become a renowned baker and teacher.
Join us as we embark on a global baking journey, from the charming streets of Paris to the cozy kitchens of Italy, all with Brian as your guide.
 Plus, stay tuned for the inside scoop on the Monday Night Baking School with Williams Sonoma, a virtual baking class series that'll inspire your inner baker.
You can find more about Brian here:
https://www.instagram.com/brianharthoffman/
Bake From Scratch Magazine
https://bakefromscratch.com
William Sonoma Cooking School
https://williams-sonoma.squadup.com
Bake From Scratch IG
https://www.instagram.com/thebakefeed/
Find out more about The Cheerful Box here
https://cheerfulcutters.com/pages/the-cheerful-box