Today we’d like to introduce you to Daja’ Hardwick.
Hi Daja’, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was in graduate school at the time. I was home one day and randomly said I want to bake cookies and sell them. I quickly made 4 flavors of cookies and posted them on social media to get people’s opinions. In November 2019, ‘The Cookie Jar’ was born as a seasonal business providing baked goodies during the holidays. I knew if I were consistent, this could be monumental. In October 2021, my business made a permanent comeback as a developing brand offering gourmet treats weekly. Months later, there was a relaunch, officially introduced as Cookie Jar Co. LLC.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road at all. But as I reflect on all I’ve endured, it’s all been a part of God’s plan. I currently have a full-time position while running CJC. The weekdays are occupied with my full-time position. After hours and weekends are dedicated to CJC. Yes, I become weary but CJC is like a child I’ve birthed. I want to see it bring new opportunities to my hometown, Albany, GA and I want it to reach places across the globe. As an entrepreneur, I currently wear several hats from baking, packaging orders, creating content and marketing strategies, taking product pictures and so much more. But I’m currently learning how to rest when needed so I can continue to produce excellence.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the founder and CEO of Cookie Jar Co. CJC is a gourmet cookie shop specializing in flavors like no other. Our mission is to curate supreme flavors, offer impeccable taste, and present in an artful manner. We’re known for flavors such as Sweet Potato Pie, Cookies & Cream, Reese’s Overload and Sweet Package. I believe CJC is set apart from others because of its unique flavors and customer service. I aim to come up with flavors that make you think “Wow. That’s a cookie?!” Even though cookies are small in size they still can be as luxurious and flavorful as a wedding cake.
Customer service is at the top of our list as well. Even though I typically converse with customers online first, I want that second-long or minute-long experience to make each customer feel valued and important. I’ve found the most gratitude in simply saying “thank you” to those that have purchased or simply shared our post. It’s an honor that most of our customers are returning customers. And I’m proud to have been able to ship to 11 of 50 states within a year. CJC will continue to leave its mark across the world.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Gratitude has been the most impactful in my success. No one is obligated to shop with my brand, like, share or comment on my post. It’s their choice. Some individuals are family members, friends, classmates, or people I’ve never met. And they still choose to support. I find that to be more than enough reason to genuinely thank them whether it’s via messenger, responding to a comment left on a post, or in a thank you card. Because I’ve found gratitude in everything connected to my brand, I’ve noticed it’s started to open more doors for me.
I must admit at first, I was money hungry. But now I vividly see the joy my brand brings to others. A lot has happened in this world over the last few years. We’ve experienced a pandemic. Loved ones have passed away. Jobs were lost. Gas, food and housing prices are soaring by the day. Plus, daily struggles with mental health, trauma, anger and aggression. I find contentment in offering the world a piece of joy again. I love to add extra cookies to my customer’s boxes and give away free boxes in the community. Because I constantly express gratitude through my brand to others, my brand will never lack.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopcookiejar.co
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/shopcookiejarco?igshid=NzNkNDdiOGI=
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/shopcookiejarco
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/shopcookiejarco?s=21&t=mJ3jnoAUA0TzLGGM6S0zNw
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopcookiejarco?_t=8WOWfqegxUB&_r=1
Image Credits
K. Dot Photography
