April 1, 2015
Felicity Beutler, Sugar Bee Cakes
Bio The path that led her to this point
Since school, I was looking for that 'thing' that made my heart beat faster.
I tried multiple industries, but always seemed to come back to the creative.
I began my first business in event stationery, and while I loved the idea of it, the unknown and the pressure of trying to run a business without any business knowledge made it hard for me to get it off the ground.
A surprising turn of events presented me with the world of cakes, and from the word go, I was hooked.
Something just switched on inside me, and I knew where I was supposed to be!
I have worked hard to keep myself going while I built my business, and have now finally been able to give up full time work to focus on my budding enterprise.
Q&A Insider advice & tips
What's been your greatest achievement to date?
A very new one! I entered a wedding cake into the Sydney Royal Easter Show this year (2015) and won first prize. A huge difference from last year- not even a mention last year, so things are looking up!
Humbled, but so super pleased that I am improving.
What's been your biggest challenge so far?
Finding the time to actually work ON my business. Working full time in a day job, and then working full time in my business outside of it, I have struggled to simply find the brain space to work on moving forward with my business.
Best lesson you've learned along the way?
I still wish I had learnt it the first time around... Having an outside voice that can provide a practical view on the business. I'm the sort of person who goes, ooh puppy! And wants to try everything all at once. But my partner (bless his soul) has the foresight to stop me, and be more practical.
A website, book or resource that has helped you in your business or inspired you and why?
Xero. It saves me. My ability to manage money is just non-existent. It controls my invoicing, accounts, and saves me so much hassle when the accountant asks for my records.
Which person or brand do you most admire and why?
No one particular person. To me, anyone who has built something that is truly them, and is true to their heart, that is inspiring.
I struggle with the 'better-than-me' jealousy a lot, but I know in my heart that those people I see as better, are just exactly like me. Striving for beauty and perfection. And I love it.
What advice would you give someone starting an independent business in your industry?
Be brutally honest with yourself. I pride myself on quality. Don't just take a class and decide that that's your new job. It doesn't work like that.
Make sure you a) are truly passionate, and b) put in the effort and the time to reach a level of quality that is worthy of being offered to others.
Finish this sentence
Everything changed for me when…
I met my partner. Soppy, but true. He is the part I was missing- the business brain, the financial whiz, the keeper of the vision. He is connected enough, but detached enough that I can have my broken moments, and he keeps on holding the flame. So many changes and movements forward have happened because of the door he has opened for me. Eternally grateful for his presence- and not just because he's cute!
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