To be honest, I’m not really sure when the biz’s birthday is. As you know, this blog, and the Tremonte’s Instagram account, have been operating far longer than a year. 

I received my cottage industry license in October of last year. I had my first pop-up in November, and I started doing special orders between those two events. 

I went back and determined the first time I sold an order of cookies as Tremonte’s was November 16th. So, I’m the boss, and I say that’s the day. 

And, wow, what a year it’s been.

Do I know what I’m doing? 

Not really.

Am I stressed out? 

Sometimes. 

Have I worn out my kitchen appliances? 

Well, if you count the oven, range, mixer, dishwasher, fridge and freezer… then, yes, yes, I have.

Have a questioned my life choices?

Only every day.

Is small business ownership ‘for me’? 

Jury’s still out..

But, what I do know is…

This little biz is bringing me so much joy.

Providing special orders for my clients’ events- birthdays, baby showers, baptisms, weddings, and memorial services- is truly an honor. Thank you for trusting me to be a part of your celebrations.

I cherish the connections I’ve made doing pop-ups. I’ve gotten to spend time with old friends, and I’ve met so many wonderful new people too. Thank you to every single person who has come out to see me at a pop-up. Maybe you’ve been searching all over town for someone who makes a rainbow cookie. Or my cookies remind you of your local childhood bakery. I love hearing stories like these and learning what my cookies mean to you.

I owe a huge thank you, to my lovely pop-up hosts. Some of whom I’ve know for ages, and some who I’ve just met. My hosts have all been such generous partners. The food and beverage industries aren’t easy, folks. And yet, everyone I’ve met has been so enthusiastic, kind, and supportive with their time, space, energy and connections. I’m truly blown away.

And, of course, I couldn’t do any of this without the support of my family. Who show up for me every day. Whether it’s providing childcare, business advice, moral support, or a good laugh. Their support is truly invaluable. Special shout-out my mom, Pam, whose artistic vision really sets the Tremonte’s displays and packaging apart. 

I’ve developed a devoted following, made SO MANY cookies, and I even got to bake on TV this year. But, what I’m most proud of is the community forming around the biz. I am so grateful to each and every person who buys cookies. There would be no Tremonte’s without you.

At Tremonte’s inception, and with the help of a career coach, I developed a few goals for the business:

1. Actualizing my dream of opening, owning, and operating my Italian American bakery with pop-ups in my community.
2. Creating something of value for myself and others.
3. Building a community around the bakery

Of course, there are so many things about owning and operating a business that I could be doing better. But, looking back at my initial goals shows me, I pretty much crushed ‘em.

I have learned so much in my first year of business ownership. And, at the same time, I’ve only just scratched the surface. And, as always, I’d love to hear your feedback. What works, what doesn’t, and what would you like to see from Tremonte’s, as we head into year two?

I’m excited to see what the next year brings.

Please join me this Saturday, November 16th, on Tremonte’s first birthday!

I’ll be popping up at Fred, 11am-2pm.

Consider it a birthday party, and this is your invitation. See you there!