Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Loftus.
Hi Taylor, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have always had a love of baking. I use to solely bake cakes for families and friends and eventually got into making cookies. My cookie journey started two years ago when the Chiefs were in the Super Bowl. I was seeing a lot of ads and other social media posts regarding custom sugar cookies for the Chiefs. I remember thinking to myself, “I think I could do that”. I began researching and playing around with different recipes. I made a couple of dozen and gave them to family and friends. They were a huge hit! I then began making custom sugar cookies for other events such as Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and Easter. Last year, my sisters really encouraged me to start my own business and start selling my cookies! It immediately took off, and Treated by Taylor was born.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
So far, it has been pretty smooth. The biggest struggle that I face is time. Most people don’t know, but custom sugar cookies take at least 3-4 days to complete. They are a multi-step/multi-day process. I am a full-time 6th-grade teacher and I am in classes now to complete my master’s program, so finding the time to complete orders is my biggest struggle. However, making cookies is my passion and relaxing to me, so I always find the time or make the time.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Treated by Taylor is a custom sugar cookie and other baked goods business. I specialize in sugar cookies but have also baked cakes for special occasions too. I am most proud of taking a leap of faith and starting my own business. It can be scary. However, having family and friends in my corner to root for me and push me along the way has been wonderful. What sets me apart is the relationship that I like to build with my customers. I like to get to know them personally and ask many questions regarding their orders. My favorite orders have been gender reveal parties and getting to share that excitement with my clients.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Follow all the groups and cookie hashtags on social media. Instagram has been very inspiring for me. I have found many other bakers out there who have given me great advice. Trial and error with recipes has also worked well for me. I didn’t want to start marketing my cookies until I knew I had the perfect recipe.
Pricing:
- Custom Cookies start at $30/dozen
- Custom Cakes start at $50
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/treatedbytaylor/
- Facebook: facebook.com/treatedbytaylor
