Today we’d like to introduce you to Melvin Leland Jr.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
It all started in my mom’s kitchen with her saying, “you’re gonna know how to take care of yourself when you get older.” This was at age five and at such an impactful time in my life; it stuck and I have had a love for food ever since.
Thanks to her early intervention and the need to keep a curious five years old busy, I was able to explore the kitchen and find my niche. I began with cookies and have now expanded into wedding cakes, evolving with demand.
Grins and Giggles Cookie Co was born out of a favor for a friend and has grown into a passion. A passion for innovation, creation, and quality. I strive to develop new flavors and add an elevated twist to the classics.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Growing a business comes with growing pains. Life happens all of the time, and its the way that we respond to it makes us who we are. COVID completely shut my business down, but instead of letting it die, I came back stronger.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I believe in baking a person’s world happy. I strive to create custom creations tailored to each person’s needs, dietary or otherwise. I pride myself on my pairings and flavor profiles. Because of my background in food, I love the mix of flavors; sweet, salty, and savory all play a role is my creations. What sets me apart from other bakers is the willingness to adapt to a client’s needs, adjusting flavors to hit each person’s palate just right.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
There are so many people that have helped guide my “ship” to its current course. My mother, Evon, deserves the utmost thanks for giving me a foundation in cooking and an appreciation for all types of food. My partner, Jay, who kicks me in the butt everyday, supports my creative process and helps to clean up the messes. Amaris of Simply Chic Soirées, for putting me in the spotlight and recommending me for this interview. Also, my best friend Kelly for always believing that I have more to give to the world and always reminding me to be the best version of myself.
Contact Info:
- Email: grinsandgigglescookieco@gmail.com
- Website: https://grinsandgigglescookieco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grinsandgigglescookieco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grinsandgigglescookieco/
Image Credits
Salvador Andrade Amaris Taylor
