Cake Crumbs with Suzanne Ellul from The Cookie Spot
Posted by Nicole Tait on 7th Jun 2023
Once upon a lockdown in Australia, new businesses delightfully sprouted, each with its own unique tale. Among them, Suzanne Ellul embraced her entrepreneurial spirit and birthed The Cookie Spot—offering delectable cookies and custom made edible images. Suzanne's venture outlasted the lockdown to become a business that fulfils her needs and delights her customer's taste buds.
1. Can you tell us about the moment you first realised you wanted to start your own cookie and edible print business?
It sort of just happened for me. My friend made a website and I thought why not give it ago, I'm not doing anything (It was covid, lol).
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?
Keeping up with the trends, not sure if I have overcome this, lol. I'm always behind but I'm sure as I grow, I'll get better on staying on top of everything.
3. What has starting and running your own business meant for you personally?
Being a stay-at-home mum is challenging for many reasons but FOR ME its financial independence. My partner is extremely supportive but I'm crazy and like to feel like I'm contributing. (And yes raising little people is contributing but that's not how my brain works, lol) Also it keeps my brain active, I'm learning so much, when you run a business on your own, you’re everything - baker, creator, marketing, content creator, admin, finance, the list is never ending!
4. Can you explain the advantages of incorporating edible images into your work as a cookie artist?
Having another option with a different price point is good for customers. Also, with more detailed pictures and logos, edible images are the way to go. I do a lot of corporates and the edible images look super professional.
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5. We're curious, what design gets your creative juices flowing and why is it your favourite to work on?
I love when customers just let me run with whatever or even working with corporates. I recently did cookies for Allianz and it was not just stock standard logo cookie. She had a theme, matching ribbon and backing cards, it was fun and lovely working and collaborating with someone else.
6. What are some of the latest and greatest trends in the world of edible images you're seeing?
Incorporating the edible image with fondant designs. So not just plonking the image on a cookie or cake.
7. Have you received any wild or wacky image requests that still make you smile? Do tell!
Nothing too extreme, just swear words and naughty hens cookies.
8. Can you share some of your pro tips for printing and applying edible images effectively?
When applying edible images always remember less is more! A very small amount of brushed water on the fondant to attach the image.
9. Self-care is crucial! How do you ensure that you're taking care of yourself while also running your business?
I see friends once a week. I try not to work too much in the evenings and weekends. And also try and do something fun with the kids, zoo, park, playgroup, play centres lots of out of house activities!
10. What career achievement are you most proud of and why does it hold a special place in your heart?
Biggest achievement was 2 separate orders of 10,000 cookies sent to multiple locations. It was hard work but heaps of fun. I put together a small team and got to work in a commercial kitchen, which is something I would love to have in the future.
11. Are there any other EIS products that you love using in your work?
I use the pre cut edible icing sheets and ink.