Meet Katie Frederick of Sift Bakehouse in Downtown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Frederick.

Katie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My first job at age sixteen was in the bakery department of a local grocery store writing “Happy Birthday” on sheet cakes. I worked at various coffee shops and bakeries throughout college. Though I was studying musical theatre, baking seemed to open many more doors in Phoenix and was just as creatively fulfilling (and luckily more consistent). I had absolutely no intention of being a small business owner, but doing parking lot pseudo drug deals of cakes and cash exchange with strangers wasn’t going to last forever! I found some local women’s small business classes through AWEEC (Arizona Women’s Entrepreneur and Education Center) where I learned how become an llc, write a business plan, etc. The support and encouragement from other entrepreneurs was pivotal in the start! Being completely self-taught and navigating my way through a brand new world was terrifying and confusing. Luckily, I quickly found connections within the wedding industry through social media and have met “friendors” that have made me who I am today. From the ladies of Bloom + Blueprint (who you featured recently!) to photographers like Riane Roberts to Courtney Larson (Inloveness Photography, also did my incredible website!!), I am now beyond confident in my brand and work and feel so grateful to get to do what I love for couples in love.

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?
There are always hiccups! It is always challenging to keep up with everything as a one-woman show. From emails to workflow to consultations, the actual execution of an order is just a small part of the process. Then, of course, there’s the scariest step…delivering! I am so lucky so say I’ve only had a couple cake disasters and was able to fix both! *knock on wood!

We’d love to hear more about your business.
I own sift bakehouse! I bake cakes, macarons, cookies and more in Downtown Phoenix. I am especially known for hand painting and thinking “outside the cake box” with my designs. I am most proud of my connections with local vendors and how our collaborative creative efforts take the dessert table to another level. I strive to create a centerpiece for your special day that is worthy of Pinterest and a second helping!!

What were you like growing up?
I have always been two-sided. Extremely goofy and outgoing while very introspective and a peacemaker. I have always been drawn to the arts as well as an avid animal lover-especially pups! I am the youngest of four, with three older brothers and grew up on a pig farm in Minnesota. I love that I have the hometown perspective and Midwest values on how to treat others, but the opportunities and energy of the city where I’ve resided for the other half of my life so far!

Pricing:

• Custom Wedding Cakes range from $7-10/serving
• Side Dessert Items (Macs to Cupcakes) range from $20-$54/dozen

Contact Info:

• Website: www.siftbakehouseaz.com
• Phone: 480.292.o722
• Email: info@siftbakehouseaz.com
• Instagram: @siftbakehouseaz
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/siftbakehouseaz

Image Credit:
Tasha Brady Photography, Ryann Lindsey Photography, Melissa Ivy Photography, Riane Roberts Photography, Rachael Koscica Photography, Kate Nelle Photography, Jennie Karges Photography, Monique Hessler Photography, April Maura Photography

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.