We recently had the chance to connect with Laurel Goodroe and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Laurel, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
When the July 4th flooding hit the Hill Country, my heart broke watching the devastation unfold. I couldn’t just sit there, I wanted to find a way to help, even if it was just in a small, simple way. For me, that meant turning on the oven and baking cookies.
What started as a little idea quickly grew into something bigger than I could have imagined. I was able to raise over $2,100, which was split between Kerrville Pets Alive, helping care for displaced and vulnerable animals, and The Community Foundation of the Hill Country, providing relief for families who lost so much.
But it wasn’t just about the dollars raised. Over 500 cookies were baked and hand-delivered to the first responders and volunteers who were out in the debris, water, and heat—putting others before themselves and showing what true community looks like.
I’m humbled and grateful to every single person who supported or shared the fundraiser. You helped turn a little act of baking into something that truly made a difference during a hard time.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Laurel, the baker behind Laurel Bakes. I first started out making decorated sugar cookies, which quickly became a way to add something sweet and personal to people’s celebrations. Over time, that passion grew into a full small-batch baking business where I now create everything from sourdough loaves to cookies, and more—all made by hand with care, using high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques.
What makes my brand special is that it’s deeply personal—I love creating baked goods that become part of people’s milestones and memories, whether it’s beautifully decorated cookies for a birthday, a fresh sourdough loaf for family dinner, or something sweet “just because.” Along the way, I’ve also found joy in teaching through my hands-on cookie and sourdough classes.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding my classes and exploring more collaborations with local farms and retail stores, keeping everything rooted in community. For me, baking isn’t just about the food—it’s about creating memories, sharing stories, and bringing people together around the table.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents taught me the most about work. From an early age, they set the example of what it means to work hard and give your best effort—whether it was a simple household chore or something much more important. They also instilled in me the importance of follow-through and completing tasks. I’ll admit, I have a tendency to procrastinate, but their example has always reminded me to finish what I’ve started.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that has held me back the most in my life is the quiet, constant thought of not being good enough. Imposter syndrome has a way of creeping in no matter what I’ve accomplished or how hard I’ve worked. There have been times when I’ve second-guessed myself, worried that others would “find out” I didn’t really belong or wasn’t as capable as they thought. That fear has kept me from speaking up, taking risks, or fully celebrating my own achievements. I’ve had to learn, and continue to remind myself, that those feelings don’t define my worth or ability—they’re just fear trying to take up space that could otherwise be filled with confidence and growth.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that family is what matters most to me. They know that the relationships I share with my loved ones are at the core of who I am and guide so much of what I do. Whether it’s showing up for family traditions, supporting one another through challenges, or simply making time to be together, I prioritize those connections. To me, family isn’t just about relatives—it’s about creating a sense of belonging, love, and support that extends to the people I hold closest in my life.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I only had 10 years left, the very first thing I would stop doing is second-guessing myself. I have a tendency to let fear and doubt creep into my decisions, making me question whether I was capable, ready, or “good enough.” With a timeline in front of me, I wouldn’t have the luxury of hesitation. I would face my fears head-on, trusting myself and my instincts more fully. Instead of holding back, I’d give myself permission to take risks, chase opportunities, and live boldly without being weighed down by what-ifs.
I would also make it a priority to travel to all the places I’ve kept tucked away on my bucket list, finally experiencing the beauty, cultures, and adventures I’ve always dreamed about. And more than anything, I would spend as much time as possible with my family and friends—making memories, sharing laughter, and cherishing the people who matter most to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.laurelbakes.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Laurelbakes_
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurel-bakes
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurelBakes
Image Credits
Rowanberry Lavender Photography
Laurel Goodroe
