Daily Inspiration: Meet Emma Arnold

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Arnold

Emma, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Decorating sugar cookies is one of my very favorite things to do! I love to share my creativity and to help make someone else’s day better. Creating cookies that perfectly fit a theme or delight as a gift is such an amazing feeling. Working on custom orders allows me to explore my creativity and share the joy of beautifully decorated cookies with my community.

Over time, I began to realize that many people are intimidated by royal icing and they think (probably because of all the drama on social media) that they’d never be able to create decorated sugar cookies. I started teaching cookie decorating classes as a fun way for people to learn the basics and develop skills. In our 90 minute classes, we talk about how the icing behaves, learn a few techniques, and decorate using a step by step process. Everyone leaves with a beautiful set of cookies. It’s awesome to see the grins and confidence as they realize that they’re able to decorate with royal icing!

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?
At the beginning, I got a lot of push back from friends in the corporate world who thought by selling decorated cookies and teaching cookie decorating classes, I was “monetizing a hobby” but it felt like following something that was more true to me. When a really intelligent person becomes a scientist, we don’t criticize them for applying their skills in a professional setting and I think creatives deserve the same respect. My husband and son have always been believed in me (and are always happy to eat my mistakes!) and I’m so thankful to have work that I absolutely love.

When I first started teaching cookie classes, I saw that most people are naturally self-critical so I work hard in class to counter that little voice in everyone’s head that says “I”m no good” or “I’m not creative.” We talk about giving ourselves grace and the belief that we can do hard things. If all else fails, I remind people that they can eat their least favorite cookie on the way home!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love bright, fun colors and cookies that make people smile. For custom cookies, that means paying attention to the details and capturing the special elements that pull a set of cookies together. In terms of cookie class, I’m able to turn that energy around and focus on the experience of those who come to class. It’s great to make someone laugh, teach them a new skill, and help them find a creative outlet.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
It might sound a little corny but success for me is seeing someone in class suddenly light up because they have just created something brand new that’s gorgeous and delicious. Success is hearing from someone who has taken my class that they went home and made cookies with their family and had a great time. Success is creating memories and a positive experience that extends beyond cookie class.

Pricing:

• $45-$65 per class ticket, depending on location.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bigmouthbaking.com – class tickets: bigmouthbaking.eventbrite.com
• Instagram: @bigmouthbaking
• Facebook: @bigmouthbaking