Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathleen Sims.
Kathleen, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My sister always tells me I get my talent for baking and decorating from my mom. She passed away when I was four, and I have very few memories of her. One memory that I do have, though, is of her taking me the grocery store and letting me pick out what decorations I wanted on my cake. It’s aways been said that birthday cakes were a big deal for her and she’d make whatever cake we choose from her box of Betty Crocker decorated cake recipe cards. Later, when I was a bit older, I’d study those cards in complete fascination. I sincerely to believe that memory and those cards are what catapulted my desire to bake and decorate. However, up until 3 years ago, decorating to me was using a butter-knife to spread cream cheese frosting on a three layer cake–four if I was feeling frisky. It wasn’t until a couple of years ago that I finally tried my hand at fondant and sculpting. It was my stepson’s 9th birthday and I wanted to make him a cake that was elaborate and spectacular. I chose a Lego cake. I still do feel for my first time working with fondant, it turned out okay.
However, I look back now and see ALL of my mistakes–the fondant is too thin and bumpy, the lines aren’t clean, etc. No matter how many mistakes I now find on that cake, it will always be special. It was the first birthday and first cake I made my step-son, it was the catalyst that drove my obsession with honing my skills, and it was the first time I thought to myself, “Hey, maybe if I get better at this, I could do this for a living.” So, that’s what I did. I’d watch YouTube videos on cake decorating Every week, I’d have a new project. I’d stand at my kitchen counter practicing those skills and techniques I’d seen in those videos. It was everything from piping techniques, buttercream vs. fondant, gum paste vs modeling chocolate, etc. Whatever I didn’t know how to do, I’d practice it until I had it down because I knew that if I ever was going to do this for a living, I’d have to be great at it.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been smooth in some areas, and not so smooth in others. I stepped into this business with no formal training in baking or decorating or even running a business. In the beginning, I was just a woman who loved all things having to do with baking, decorating, and art. Because of my love of those things, I knew I wanted to turn my passion into a business. But I had absolutely no idea how to do that. Like all decisions I make, I just dove right in. Sink or swim–as they say. Needless to say, there is quite a learning curve when I come to things where one has to teach themselves. In the beginning, I was clueless as to where to advertise, the best ways to deliver, what to offer, and what to charge. I’ve made some mistakes, rethought and rearranged some things. It was bumpy in the beginning, but I’ve learned a lot of those times and not only am I better for it, my business is.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Muffin Top Bakery – what should we know?
I’m the owner, baker, and decorator of Muffin Top Bakery in Houston, Tx. I specialize in custom cake artistry, but I offer custom cupcakes, decorated cookies, and cake pops. I am proud of the level of customer service I provide. It is a complete dedication to the people I provide this service for that drives me to do and be the best I can be. In the moments I am decorating a cake for a customer my sole responsibility is to them. I don’t care if it’s an $800.00 cake or a $30 order of cupcakes, all customers are equally important. I really do believe that my dedication to my craft and to the people that commission it, is what sets me apart. If a person calls me and tells me they want a cake with a face sculpted into the side with lit sparklers coming out at all angles, then that’s what they’re gonna get. And I don’t care if I’ve worked 10 hours on it, if it’s not perfect then I’ll spend another 10 hours perfecting it. Nothing gets delivered that isn’t absolutely perfect and isn’t what the customer asked for.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My biggest supporters have been those that are near and dear to my heart. The first is my partner and love of my life, Leo Lazcano. He is my helper when I get behind on projects because I’ve spent to much time perfecting a detail that he says only I’ll notice. He supports my decisions, helps foster my goals, and is my biggest champion. He builds me up and reminds me of my talents when I am having one of those days where I question every move, and decision I make. Without him by my side, this entire journey wouldn’t be possible. The second is my step-son, Chris. Without him, I don’t believe I ever would have made the case that led me down this path. Plus, he is always eager to help me out. No matter what it is, from coloring fondant to baking to washing dishes, he’s just excited to be a part of it. I am forever grateful for our paths crossing. Lastly, my brother (John) and sister (Jennifer) have encouraged me and lifted me up in moments of doubt from the very beginning. They push me to never give up and always remind me I could do anything.
Pricing:
- Custom Cupcakes–$30 per dozen
- Cake Pops–$28 per dozen
- Decorated Cookies–$28 per dozen
- Custom Cakes–prices vary based on serving size and level of detail
Contact Info:
- Website: facebook.com/muffintopbakeryhouston/
- Phone: (832) 836-2982
- Email: muffintop2017@gmail.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/muffintopbakeryhouston/
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