Conversations with Erin Mullen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Mullen. 

Hi Erin, 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.
My name is Erin Mullen, and I own and operate Sweet Eats by Erin – a gourmet cupcake and cake ball business – out of my home. I never thought I would be making baked goods for a living but now I wouldn’t have it any other way. I started baking in college to help pay for my schooling. It was more of a hobby/side gig because I enjoyed it and could make a few extra bucks. As years went on, orders came rolling in and clientele expanded. I went to school to be a teacher, and after a few (exhausting) years of full-time Elementary School teaching, High School Basketball coaching, AND baking, I decided to take a leap and pursue baking full-time. In 2017 I made it official with an LLC and the rest has been history! Though this was a bit terrifying, I knew my degree would always be there, but my customers may not. After 5 years of baking out of my parent’s kitchen, I purchased my first home to keep up with the growth of my business. My kitchen in my small Ferndale bungalow has produced hundreds of thousands of cupcakes – unbelievable! But watch out… brick and mortar plans are in the works! 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
One of the greatest obstacles for me is work/life balance. So many people believe being your own boss is an absolute dream. Though I am extremely grateful to run a successful business, it comes with many challenges. Being self-employed means I have many many roles to achieve. Of course, I need to complete all my orders, but I also have to take care of the bookwork, finances, marketing, inventory, communication and so much more. I have to balance several “jobs” while ensuring I am not slacking on the quality of my work. I work an absurd amount of hours to accomplish all my tasks & to keep my customers happy. Though I consider myself “a one-woman show”, I owe a lot of credit to my friends and family. It truly takes a village to keep things running smoothly. I live a hectic & exhausting lifestyle BUT am incredibly thankful to wake up every day doing something I love. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m focused on making my customers’ special occasions even more unforgettable and unique. I love being able to help celebrate so many momentous occasions, from first birthdays and weddings to retirement parties and bachelorette celebrations! Looking at 2023 I’m focused on continued business growth while maintaining the relationships I have been so fortunate to cultivate – the best part of my job is being a part of so many people’s lives and most special moments (even if just for a 30 minutes because the treats go quick so people have to get them fast ha!) 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
As a self-taught baker, my biggest advice is to get in the kitchen and just give it a try! As for resources to enjoy… My secret tip is to turn on a random cheesy TV show in the background – they’ve gotten me through many long days/nights in my kitchen! My determination was my greatest inspiration, and my creativity took lead from there. 

Pricing:

• Cupcakes start at $26.50 a dozen
• Bite-size goodies start at $12.50 a dozen

Contact Info:

• Instagram: sweet eats by erin
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweeteatsbyerin

Image Credits
Amber Marie Photography