Feature Friday: Brandy Engels

Name: Brandy Engels
Company Name: Brandy's Custom Cakery
Email: brandyscustomcakery@gmail.com
Website: www.Facebook.com/brandyscustomcakery
Phone: (605) 521-6678
How long have you been in business? 6 years

What is your business all about?

I solely operate a full small town bakery in Parker, SD. Everything from donuts and pastries, to personal treats, cookies, beautiful wedding and birthday cakes, cupcakes, breads and buns, etc.
I deliver and set up wedding or any events that you may need a treat!
Or just stop on by for a cup of coffee and a donut, sit up front with friend or small group.

What made you start your business?

I have always known I wanted to start my own business. When I discovered cake decorating I knew what I was born to do. So I came across an opportunity that I couldn't pass up. After 2 1/2 yrs of hard work getting things ready, cleaned, fixed up I opened the doors. Not knowing what I was doing, I have fallen in love with my business and put everything I have into every order!

What makes your business unique?

I make my business unique! I run my place alone. So it starts and ends with me. I believe that excellent customer is a dying trade so I try to make sure everyone feels welcome at my place! I may not know how to do everything, but I like my customers who challenge me and trust me to try!
Being in a small town not too far away from Sioux Falls, gives me an edge to keep my prices reasonable. I also still live in SF, so I am able to deliver to SF and the surrounding areas with little effort.

What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful business owner?

• Patience
• Discipline
• Courage

What three pieces of advice would you give to someone who wants to launch their own business?

• Go for it! You don't want to look back and wonder, ""what if""!
• Believe in yourself, it is hard some days to be the one pushing for yourself but your dreams are worth it!
• Have faith! Things never start off at full speed. You have to gain momentum and do lots of learning on the way. But eventually you start picking up speed.

Who has been your greatest inspiration? Or what book has inspired you the most? Or what is your favorite book?

Honestly, my 3 daughters inspire me the most. To be a role model and leader for them. I want to show them that if you have a dream, to work hard for it and keep trying everyday! God, inspires me to keep pushing myself! Lastly my Mom, she taught me to push my self!
There have been a few people/books that have inspired me. ""Fear Boss"" by Judi Holler. Christy Wright, she works for Dave Ramsey. She helps inspire women in business, just went to one of her business boutiques this last fall!

How do you conquer those moments of doubt that so often stifle or trip up or stop so many?

I break it down into smaller doable pieces. Everything is scary as a whole, but if you break it down, it is not as intimidating. Nothing last forever either. If a moment starts with doubt YOU have the ability to change that feeling or outcome!

Please feel free to share any other information that will help your audience get to know you better.

I am a wife of 10 yrs. and a mother of 3 beautiful girls. I love what I do so much and will rock it as long as God lets me!

Learn more about Brandy and Brandy's Custom Cakery at www.Facebook.com/brandyscustomcakery!