Today we’d like to introduce you to Jane Oswald.
Jane, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Becoming a Cookie Artist and Owner of Not So Plain Jane Cookies was inspired by my family, creativity, and overcoming personal challenges.
Creating different forms of art was a significant part of my childhood because my dad was a woodcarver who ran his furniture-making business out of the home garage. It was amazing to see the intricate creations he made out of wood and how tough it was to run a small business. Inspired by my dad’s struggles, I pursued a Business Administration and Marketing college degree to support and promote small businesses like my dad’s. After graduating and then working for corporate America for a few years, I found myself in a new position; a stay-at-home-mom.
To connect with other first time moms’ in my community, I joined a local MOMS Club and developed many lasting friendships. Like most parents, I attended many kid’s birthday parties. One common thread that stood out for me at all of these events was the concept of giving out party favors for each guest to take home. I remember attending one party where they gave out a basic animal sugar cookie and thinking “What a great idea. I can do that and make it not so plain!” So, when my eldest son was seven years old and told me he wanted a Star Wars-themed birthday party, I knew it was the opportunity I needed to test out my plan to make memorable decorated sugar cookies as the party favors.
In the past, I relied on store-bought cookie dough. This time I scoured the internet for cookie and icing recipes and read blog after blog on tutorials to decorate sugar cookies. After hours of baking scratch-made batter and icing, and then decorating, I was pleased with how they turned out. There weren’t ready-made Star Wars cookie cutters readily available at the time so I used some that would work: a bell for Darth Vader, a skull for C3PO, and a tombstone for R2D2. My son loved his Star Wars decorated cookies and they were a hit with his party guests!
I immersed myself in trying different techniques and recipes to come up with my signature cookies. It was important for me to find a recipe that tastes great while easy to work with. In the meantime, I created cookies for special occasions for my youngest son, husband, and several friends’ parties. They complimented me that the cookies were as delicious as they looked. One friend was moved to suggest that I should create a separate business page for all my cookies. With their encouragement, I seriously looked into starting my own small business.
Today, I am the Owner and Cookie Artist for Not So Plain Jane Cookies operating under the Cottage Law of Arizona where I am able to bake and sell from my home. I share highlights of my cookie journey on my Facebook and Instagram pages. I am part of many cookie networking groups on Facebook and follow other cookiers’ pages on Instagram. I am constantly learning better ways to become more efficient in producing quality cookies that taste great.
Recently I’ve begun to offer cookie decorating classes in which I share the basics and tips I’ve learned over the years. I love to see the sense of accomplishment the students feel after decorating their own sugar cookies.
Creating custom cookies for all occasions is still a big part of what I do – just provide your theme and preferred color. The best part of my job is meeting people and being a small part of their special day. I love the delightful look on the faces of my customers when they finally see the cookies in person.
Has it been a smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road balancing family and a small business from home. There are many times I had to miss spending quality time with my family when I overbook during the week.
Managing my time efficiently and effectively has been my number one struggle. I often work during the evening hours after everyone is asleep. That is my most quietest and most productive time to work because it is the most uninterrupted time. Unfortunately, it also means I am staying up late most nights when I am coming upon a deadline. One of my biggest challenges in my business is being a one-person baker, decorator, and packer of my cookies, but I know it won’t always be like this.
Alright – so let’s talk business. What else should we know about your work?
Not So Plain Jane Cookies is a small business specializing in creating custom decorated sugar cookies for all occasions. I am the owner and cookie artist creating cookie sets that are baked and decorated by hand with the individual in mind.
I pride myself in creating beautiful cookies that not only look good but tastes great. I enjoy what I do and I love creating cookies that represent the individual person receiving it.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I do believe our city is a good place for businesses like mine. With affordable housing, families can have great quality of life here.
I recommend our city for anyone just starting out. The Arizona cottage law is in place for those who would like to start a baked goods business in their home. This city and surrounding areas have the best demographics that give my business a chance to thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.notsoplainjanecookies.com
- Phone: 623-910-8422
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/notsoplainjanecookies
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/notsoplainjanecookies
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