Amanda Sims brings a unique, creative and fashionable take on sweets and baked goods with her business, Sugar With Style. Initially established in 2012, Amanda has continued to build her business and her brand while working a day job in Fashion in Manhattan. Combining her two loves of fashion and baking into her business, we are always in awe of her stunning and delicious fresh-off-the-runway creations. In just about 10 days, Sugar With Style will be expanding to an e-commerce site on December 5th. Amanda's personally curated collection will offer gifts, party decorations, accessories, balloons and so much more, making it easy to order your cake and all the fixings in one place. Even better, many of these items have been chosen by local vendors, friends and other women-owned businesses. Be sure to follow along this journey with Sugar With Style. We can't wait to see what Amanda brings to the table next!
THE CONVO
Featuring Amanda Sims, owner of Sugar With Style
What's your craft?
Cake Designer | Baker | Entrepreneur
How did you get your start?
My very first job was working at a local bakery in town, Sapienza — from there my love for cake design and baking was born. Although I went off to work in the fashion industry I always felt that baking fed me more (quite literally). I would come home from a busy day at work to bake cookies or make someone a birthday cake for the office. By making desserts for my friends and family it occurred to me that I could take this hobby and make it into a little side hustle. I created an IG account back in 2012 and the rest is history!
What has been the largest obstacle you've encountered so far?
We live in a society where we put pressure on ourselves to always be doing “the most” and “being the best” all while “living our best lives” — for me, as many other small businesses, I struggle with balancing it all! I hate to admit it sometimes but I think this balancing act will be an obstacle for a long time to come but I am learning to be gracious with myself!
What has been the 'best day ever' for you and your business so far?
What a question — this is by no means a negative response to this question but I always like to be genuine and honest! I haven’t had a “BEST DAY EVER” in my business yet! There have been A LOT of “pinch me” moments and every day feels like the best day when I am working on SWS, but truthfully I am working really hard to have a moment like this. For me it would be the day that SWS is so successful that I am able to quit my day job and work exclusively on this business for the rest of my life!
What types of marketing have been key to your success?
For me it’s simply IG and word of mouth! I am planning on expanding my reach and trying new ways of marketing.
Who inspires you?
I draw inspiration from a very wide range of people, places and things! Currently I am inspired by architecture and interior design. Specifically, Kelly Wearstler, her designs are so elevated and unique. I love pulling photos from her portfolio and IG when working on original cake designs and decor.
Any words of wisdom to leave us with?
You have heard this before, I know, but, don’t give up on your dreams! Even when you are feeling your lowest just know that there is something better on the other side. We are all a work in progress — our businesses included. If you are making mistakes it just means that you are working towards your goals and learning along the way! Don’t let the fear of the unknown dictate the outcome of your dreams. It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to get there, what matters is your tenacity, humility, and a willingness to carry an open heart and an open mind! So that’s right, don’t give up and life will reward you with the unimaginable.
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More about Amanda + Sugar With Style can be found on:
Website: sugarwithstyle.com