Description

It all started with a Facebook page. Back in 2018, Beverly Clutter decided to start showcasing her decorated cookies on social media, but she had no idea that it would soon turn into a business!

Beverly lives in Fairmont, WV and sells custom decorated sugar cookies, cakes, and other baked goods with her cottage food business, WV Cookie Jar.

At the recent national cottage food conference, Beverly earned the top spot on the leaderboard as the most active attendee (out of 900+ attendees), and her submissions into the photo contest were equally impressive.

Whether it is posting on social media, being hyper engaged at a conference, or teaching decorating classes to her local community, Beverly consistently puts herself (and her business) out there and focuses on serving others.

The result? A successful side business that has grown organically, brings her plenty of joy and freedom, and provides her family with some extra income.

What You'll Learn

• The benefit of showcasing your hobbies on social media
• How a simple giveaway can boost your Facebook page
• Some tips for improving your food photos
• Why Beverly is glad that her business got reported to the health department
• How to transition a hobby into a business
• Where to source packaging supplies
• How offering classes can boost your business
• The benefit of having a separate bank account for your business
• How Beverly's nursing job helped prepare her to run a cottage food business
• The busiest times of year for a decorated cookie business
• What type of person should start a cottage food business
• Tips for when you're just getting started with your business

Resources

WV Cookie Jar Website (Facebook / Instagram)

CK Products (cookie boxes)

Clear Bags (cellophane bags)

Ann Clark Cookie Cutters

West Virginia Cottage Food Law

Get full show notes and transcript here: https://forrager.com/podcast/36