We’re looking forward to introducing you to Neciey Shelton. Check out our conversation below.
Neciey, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are focused on setting a positive and productive tone. I start with prayer to center myself spiritually and mentally, followed by a cup of coffee to get energized, and then a shower to refresh and prepare for the day ahead.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Neciey Shelton, and I’m a pastry chef, the owner and founder of Gimmie Shugar & More LLC, attended Le Cordon Bleu, where I studied Pastry Arts. I’m also the co-owner of Mo City Bakers and the founder of Honey B Travel. Alongside running my businesses, I serve as an instructor at Cake Craft Shoppe and teach pastry arts in our local school district.
Before I found my calling in the kitchen, I spent 17 years as a hairstylist — a career that taught me the importance of creativity, detail, and making people feel special. In 2010, I decided to follow my heart and turn my lifelong love for baking into a full-time passion — a journey deeply inspired by my mother, who sparked my appreciation for homemade desserts and the joy they bring to others.
I’m also a mom of three, a grandmother of one, and have been a military wife for 28 years. Traveling the world with my husband has truly shaped who I am. More than anything, I love bringing people together through food, fun, and unforgettable experiences — that’s the heart behind everything I do.
“I believe every dessert should tell a story — sweet, memorable, and made with love.”
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I would say God saw me clearly before I could see myself. Every step of my journey, from being a hairstylist to becoming a pastry chef and business owner, has been guided by faith. Even when I didn’t fully see my potential, God already had the vision for who I was meant to be. I just had to trust the process, walk in faith, and allow His plan to unfold. Looking back, I can see how everything I went through prepared me for the purpose I’m living now.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, I went through a deep depression about a year ago, and honestly, I almost gave up on baking. It was a really tough time, but it also reminded me why I fell in love with what I do. Baking has always been my peace and my passion, and finding my way back to it helped me heal and see my purpose more clearly.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is only a part of who I am. Like most people, there’s also a private side that not everyone sees. What I share publicly is the professional, creative, and outgoing part of me – but private, I’m actually very reflective, family -oriented, and enjoy my quiet time. Both sides make me who I am, and I think having that balance helps me stay grounded and authentic.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace in two places, The first is late at night when everyone’s asleep and I’m working on an order – it’s just me, my music, and the creativity flowing. That quiet time allows me to really connect with what I love doing.
The second place is on a cruise ship, sitting on the balcony with a cup of coffee, watching the sunrise and listening to the ocean. In that moment, it’s just me, the water, and God. Both bring me a sense of calm and remind me to be present and grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gimmieshugar.com
- Instagram: @gimmieshugar
- Linkedin: Gimmie Shugar & More LLC
- Facebook: Gimmie Shugar & LLC
- Other: TikTok – Gimmie Shugar & More LLC
