

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Hillegeist.
Amber, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always dreamed of owning my own business. So when my passion for cooking turned into baking, my first goal was to start sharing my dream with others. I began reaching out to my fellow small business owners, networking and learning how to do all things business. As I began to grow, I branched out to small markets where I could meet new customers and really be able to showcase what I do. We started getting orders from new customers, who would then tell their friends about us! This past year, we have grown TREMENDOUSLY! We are now to able to really showcase our fellow small businesses, as well as meet new people daily who love our sweets! I’m currently working towards our biggest goal yet, to open a storefront in my local community! I’m hopeful that in the next couple years, this dream will become a reality and I can truly start to give back to my community more than ever before!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Owning a small business involves constant learning! When I first started, I priced everything too low and wasn’t able to make a profit, so I had to learn about pricing and profit margins. Now I’ve been tackling taxes and everything else that you don’t think about when you first start. A lot of people don’t see behind the curtains of Gemini Sweets. To them, they just see cupcakes and cookie dough, but I’m the one that gets to work out all of the logistics and legal work. I’m forever grateful to even have this opportunity, but it’s in no way, shape or form, easy.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Gemini Sweets story. Tell us more about the business.
Gemini Sweets is a home-based bakery! We specialize in gourmet cupcakes and edible cookie dough! We do our best to work with local ingredients to create unique flavors, while also catering to those who love the classics! We are constantly adding and changing our menu to better service our amazing customers!
We have recently started offering cupcake pull-a-part cakes, as well as doggy birthday cakes so you can treat your four-legged babies!
What sets us apart is that we aren’t after it for the money. My main goal with this business is to provide affordable options for families as well as give back to my community! I love being able to showcase other small businesses, so once a month, we choose one small business to highlight in our monthly subscription boxes!
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I wouldn’t say luck had much to do with it. Just about everything I’ve got, I’ve had to work for. But I suppose I’m just lucky that I have the ability to run a small business. Not everyone gets to say that. I get to create my own menu, do my own marketing/branding, and really show my personality through what I do.
Pricing:
- Dozen Cupcakes – $20.00
- Edible Cookie Dough – $4.75/8 oz
- Monthly Subscription Box – $15 – $25
Contact Info:
- Phone: 7708405241
- Email: geminisweetsinc@gmail.com
- Instagram: @geminisweetsllc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeminiSweetsInc
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