Sugar Art Studio

         

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Interview with Lila Johnson, Owner of Sugar Sweet Studio in Austin, Texas

1. Can you tell us a little bit about your background and how you got into sugar art?

My passion for baking started in childhood, and eventually, I found myself drawn to the artistry of sugar. I started making cakes for family and friends, and then gradually expanded into making edible decorations. I worked in a few bakeries and took courses to learn the tricks of the trade, eventually leading me to start Sugar Sweet Studio.

2. What was the biggest challenge you faced when starting Sugar Sweet Studio, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge was finding a storefront location that was reasonable and affordable. I looked for more than a year and finally found a space that was a bit bigger but that I could afford. I also took out a small business loan to help cover the initial costs. I knew that I had to take a great leap of faith to start my dream business, and thankfully it paid off.

3. How have you adapted to the changes brought by the pandemic, and how has your business continued to thrive?

The pandemic forced us to close our in-person workshops, which were a significant part of our business. However, we pivoted to selling our supplies and tools online, which we had never done before. We also began offering our classes and workshops online, which has allowed our reach to expand beyond Austin. With the help of Shopify, we have been able to create a virtually seamless online experience.

4. Speaking of Shopify, how has their platform helped your business?

Shopify has been a game-changer for our business. It has given us a way to create and manage our online storefront and streamline our shipping and order processes. It was a straightforward experience to get started, and we were able to customize our store in a way that looks and feels like Sugar Sweet Studio.

5. What advice do you have for others wanting to start their own business in the baking industry?

My advice would be to secure a solid business plan and be patient in finding the ideal location for your storefront. It might take some time, but once you have the perfect space, you are well on your way to success. Additionally, diversify your offerings, and be open to pivoting if needed- like we did during the pandemic.

6. What is your favorite type of cake to make?

I love creating whimsical, custom designs for children’s birthday cakes. It's so fulfilling to see their faces light up when they see their cake come to life.

7. What is next for Sugar Sweet Studio, and what can we expect to see from you in the future?

We will continue to grow our online presence and reach and expand our offerings, such as digital classes, tools, and cake decorating kits. Eventually, I’d also like to publish a cookbook of my favorite recipes and designs.

Thank you for chatting with us today, Lila, and best of luck with Sugar Sweet Studio!

         

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