Life & Work with Brittany Weaver

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Weaver.

Hi Brittany, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
In 2019, I left my career of 11 years and transitioned to being a stay-at-home momma. During that time, I also experienced a loss and was finding ways to process my grief. That is when I turned to baking. There was something about being able to just focus on one step, one measurement at a time, that was very healing to me. And the bonus of giving away my baked goods and making other folks happy with them was exactly the balm I needed at the time! 

Fast forward to Covid, and I began painting and fell in love with it. Prior to that I never would have considered myself artistic. Shortly after that, I realized how perfect this intersection of baking and art was for me, and Crowded Table Cookies was born! 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t all been sunshine and rainbows! Learning how to balance working from home has been an ongoing learning experience. There have been many nights burning the midnight oil when decorating your goodies. And my first year in business, I wanted to say yes to everything. I still struggle with that sometimes, but thankfully, I’m surrounded by amazing fellow small business owners that help remind me that no is a full sentence! 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Crowded Table Cookies is a cottage bakery where I operate out of my home in Okemos, MI. My specialty is sugar cookies that are delectable art, custom-made for you. I also have seasonal markets and pop-up shops and teach classes where you can learn how to decorate cookies as well! 

I’m passionate about creating original designs for my clients. When a request comes through that mentions giving me artistic freedom, my heart is full! Everything I do is by hand; no printers are involved in my process. 

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Every time I participate in a market or pop-up shop, I’m baking on speculation. It’s a huge risk because I could sell out, or I could have a bunch of extra product that I need to try and sell after the fact. My philosophy is that I’d rather always have extra! I’m the same way as a host in my home. Worst case, I have extra cookies and then I gift them to others. That is a surefire way to make someone’s day! 

Pricing:

• Custom cookies start at $75 per dozen
• Cookie classes start at $65 per person

Contact Info:

• Website: Crowdedtablecookies.com
• Instagram: @crowdedtablecookies

Image Credits
Amanda Shaffer Photography
Crowded Table Cookies