Today we’d like to introduce you to Madeline Cole.
Hi Madeline, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Since I can remember, I have always loved baking and being in the kitchen. Recently, it has dawned on me that what I enjoy is the process of baking, particularly baking for other people. There is something so special and intimate about making something by hand for another person. I love it—to say the least. My best advice is if you love something, monetize it.
You do not have to make money from every passion you have, but it is a great idea! Figure out how to benefit from it to the best of your ability. You will thank yourself later. For me, starting MRC Bakery was a very spontaneous decision. I felt like I just wanted to do something fun, and easy (definitely not saying starting a business as an inexperienced teenager is easy, haha, but baking comes naturally to me), and I also desperately needed a creative outlet.
I drummed up the idea when I was bored and sitting in Chemistry class. A few weeks later after I had done some serious planning, I bought 250 white bags, some red ribbon, and tissue paper from Amazon. A month later, I established my social media pages, menus, and business cards. Before I knew it, I was entering orders left and right into my excel spreadsheet. Just over half a year later, I am now launching holiday flavors and working with local coffee shops.
Although I haven’t done any markets yet, I would look forward to doing so in the future. Starting MRC Bakery has allowed me to not only make money but also be playful and have as much fun as I want. I am free of the stress of working for someone else or having to clock in my 9-5. So far, it has been one of the smartest decisions I have made. As I always say, if you do not take risks, trust that you will be working for someone who does.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For the most part, yes. My only struggles have been balancing school life (as I’m still in high school, and also dual-enrolled in 2 universities) and my baking business. I do have a bit of trouble finding time, but my “job” (I write a job in parentheses because it does not feel like a job to me) is not something I am tempted to procrastinate on.
I also am having trouble with releasing new holiday/seasonal items on time, as well as making sure I have all the supplies on hand. Other than that, starting a business has been a lot less complicated than I expected!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about MRC Bakery?
Currently, I specialize in baking scones, muffins, and refined-sugar-free items. I’m known for café pastries that pair well with breakfast or a nice, hot cup of coffee. The biggest thing that sets my business apart from others is my age. I started MRC Bakery after I had just turned 17, and I do not plan on stopping anytime soon. It was difficult at first to research ingredients, calculate the prices and my hourly wage, and also factor in utilities.
Nevertheless, I figured it out eventually and now I love every aspect of my “work”. Brand-wise, I am most proud of my packaging. From the beginning, I had this vivid image in my head: silk red ribbon, cursive writing, black accents, and white boxes. I am incredibly excited to say I have made this image come to life. Every scone, muffin, and dessert bar I package is made with precision, special attention to detail, and most importantly, love.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My mom deserves an award (or multiple!) for her love and support for my business. She has helped me the whole way. From figuring out the financial logistics to always being there for me emotionally when I needed her— she is the best, point-blank!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrcbakeryyy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MRCBakeryyy
