Blog

Lauren Jaehne's edible image business, Life Is Sweet Edible Images, began as a dream nine years ago. After finding the courage to believe in herself, she made that dream a reality two years ago. Starting from scratch was daunting, but today, Lauren enjoys creating fun, on-trend designs while appreciating the flexibility it brings to her work and family life. She encourages others to take the plunge into their own business ventures!

1. Can you tell us about when you first realised you wanted to start your own edible image business?

I realised 9 years ago that I wanted to start my edible image business, but with working full-time and raising my family, there never seemed to be enough time. So it was put on the back burner till 2 years ago.

2. Starting and running a business can be a wild ride! What challenges have you faced while building your business and how have you overcome them?

My biggest challenge was believing in myself. That I was capable of doing it. Starting something you know nothing about at any age is daunting, let alone at 55. 

3. What has starting and running your own business meant for you?

It gives me more time with my family, I pick my own hours to suit my day.

4. What are some of the latest and greatest trends in the world of edible images you're seeing?

Every week there's a new trend. One week it's Bluey the next week it's Minecraft.

5. Have you received any wild or wacky image requests that still make you smile? Do tell!

I once discovered the world of Skibidi Toilet. Had no idea what it even was. Probably one of the strangest requests from a customer

.

6. Can you share some of your pro tips for printing, storing, mailing or applying edible images effectively?

I purchased an esky last summer to store my icing sheets in to keep them at a constant temperature. Makes it so much easier to print on them. When printing with predominantly dark/black colours, do a base plate clean after every sheet. Keeps your prints perfect. At the end of every printing session, I always put the cleaning cartridges in my printer and print a test page before shutting it down. 

7. Self-care is crucial! How do you take care of yourself while running your business?

I always take time out for my family, have appointments for pickups and very rarely work on weekends. It's like having a 9 to 5 job, but a job that I love.

8. What business-related achievement are you most proud of, and why does it hold a special place in your heart?

I'm just proud of how far I've come in 2 short years. From a computer dummy to now being able to design from scratch. Oh, and mastering the circle cutter. Lol

9. What advice would you give someone just starting their cake/cookie/edible image-related journey?

This has been the best decision I have ever made starting this business. So for those of you out there who aren't sure about taking that first step. Do it, you won't regret it. I don't.