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A relocation to Tasmania proved to be the perfect time for talented cookie/cake maker Allison Jackson to take her skills to the market and start up her own "sweet" business. Now Ally's Sweet Treats is growing each day and keeping this creative baker super busy.

1. How did your sweets/cake/cookie business or journey begin?

I have always enjoyed baking but when I had my children, I started doing their birthday cakes and it just grew from there. I loved doing it so I would always offer to do cakes for friends and family. Two years ago, my family relocated to Hobart and I thought that was a perfect opportunity to start my business -  Ally’s Sweet Treats. Now I mostly do custom cookies and I’m lucky enough to be getting busier and busier.

2. What has starting your own business meant for you?

Starting a business for me means I get to do what I love. In the lead up to Christmas, I was so busy and overwhelmed and looking forward to a break and then in less than a week of my break, I was missing it and ready to get started again!!

3. What have been/are the biggest challenges you face(d) in regard to starting/building/maintaining your business?

This is easy for me to answer and it’s all about balance. I find that having a home-based business feels like I’m always ‘working’. This is something I definitely need to do better.

4. What do you feel are the benefits of using edible images?

Edible images are absolutely fantastic for corporate cookies who want their logo. This is an area of my business that is growing and without an  edible image printing system, it would not be possible. In addition to that, images can be used from invitations so a cake or cookies can match for those who want to stick to a theme. Edible images are so quick, easy and convenient. It has allowed me to tap into a market that would not be possible without it.

5. What is your favourite type of treat/design to create?

I do love doing cookies and they are my favourite, however, I love getting the odd order for cupcakes and cakes too for something different. I’m always saving ideas from Pinterest or Instagram of cakes that I love.

6. What is the current trend you’re seeing in edible images?

Definitely corporate cookies or cupcakes, but also, edible images can be used as a cheaper option for cake toppers as they are so much quicker and easier than fondant toppers. This helps keep the cost down for a client.

7. What is the funniest/most unusual sweet creation you’ve been asked to make?

I haven’t really had any unusual or funny requests but I am often quite blown away by the themes that some children come up with for their party. Some are very specific with their design or colour choices and are often based on their favourite tv shows or characters.

8. Do you have any tips you can share when either printing or applying edible images?

I use water to apply my images but you have to very careful that your hands stay dry. Water is not an edible image friend!!

9. What is your “can’t live without” sweet making tool?

Oh, I have so many tools that I can’t live without. Obviously my cookie cutters are imperative but all the tools and tricks of the trade are important to create beautiful treats!

10. What do you do for yourself within your life and business to help avoid or alleviate burnout?

I’m working on this and aim to get better at it. I do like to watch certain tv shows.

11. What is your career highlight to date?

My career highlight is repeat customers and / or business recommendations. I think that is the greatest compliment I can receive and am forever truly grateful.