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What starts as a bit of curiosity can sometimes turn into something so much bigger - and that was exactly the case for Shannyn Uphill. A keen caker, she took a simple love of baking, backed herself wholeheartedly, and turned it into a thriving little sweet treats business, Let’s Get Baked, fuelled by late nights, big decisions, and a genuine desire to make customers smile (especially the littlest ones).

1. Can you tell us about when you first realised you wanted to start your sweet treats business?

I have always enjoyed baking, just not to this extent. I started seeing videos on social media of people decorating cakes and cupcakes, and thought, why not give it a go. I made some cupcakes for a friend at work, and everyone thought I had purchased them. That's when it truly began. 

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?

I would have to say time management was tough, I worked full-time, and then I would come home and bake, sometimes I was running on 3-4hrs sleep. I decided after paying off my mortgage that I wanted to go all in. I quit my full-time job, and now I'm just running my baking business. 

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

It has shown me that I can do anything I put my mind to. I always saw myself as a very independent woman - I purchased my first home at 20 and paid off my second home at 37. I knew I was done working for companies that don't appreciate my hard work! 

4. You purchased an edible ink printer early last year; what motivated this decision? 

I loved the idea of being able to make customers' ideas come to life by creating edible custom images, etc. Some customers unfortunately don't have a budget for fancy custom cakes, so I now have the option to create an image they could use for their own store-bought cake, cupcake, or cookies. 

5. Can you explain the advantages of incorporating edible images into your sweet creations?

Customers can choose whatever image they want; it makes it unique to the style they like. I love being able to give my customers that option. 

6. We're curious: what design gets your creative juices flowing, and why is it your favourite to work on? 

I absolutely love creating kids' cakes, it's so fun! They don't care how smooth the side of the cake is or how perfect the piping looks; they just want a fun-looking cake. I love that! 

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

I haven't yet... looking forward to that moment though - hehe.

8. Looking back, what advice would you give to someone keen to purchase an edible ink printer for the first time?

Don't think twice, honestly best purchase I have made since starting my business. If unsure, or it's overwhelming, contact the Team at EIS. They are so helpful and super friendly. 

9. Do you have a favourite cake flavour?

I would have to say, cookies and cream, something I enjoy and also my most popular.

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

I try to go for a walk most days and just take time to stop and breathe.

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

Having no prior experience running a business, just giving it my all and doing the best I can, everything has been successful so far.

Honestly, I have the best customers!