Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Carmody.
Hi Ashley, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in North Dakota, baking was always something that was a part of our lives. We baked for our own birthdays, family reunions, weddings, funerals, and holidays. It was a way that you showed people that you cared. I grew up in Fargo and after high school, I was still unsure of what I really wanted to do. I started working for a local Greek restaurant where they were training me in all roles of the restaurant. I loved learning it all but it wasn’t until they had me make the desserts, I found my real passion and knew what I wanted to do. I moved to Minneapolis where I started working for Christos Greek Restaurants.
I had 15 wonderful years serving our community but it was a time for a change. I didn’t know what that was going to be but wanted baking to be a part of it. That is when Sugar Butter Mpls was born. I got my cottage food license and started applying for indoor farmers’ markets. I could only make certain sweets with that specific license so I started making my nut-based granola and homemade cookies made with real butter and sugar just like I made when I was growing up. I created the OMG! Chocolate Chip Cookie with Sea Salt which is over 6 ounces each! I had a great response with the indoor markets so I signed up for the outdoor farmer markets in Richfield, Linden Hills, and Plymouth. The season went so well I had to upgrade my license and move into a commercial kitchen. I never thought that this would turn into a full-time business right away but you never know where life will take you! I am so grateful to be doing something that makes me so happy.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have definitely had my challenges. Inflation has been the worst so far.
When you are not able to find ingredients at multiple stores and with the crazy pricing of eggs and butter, it makes you question if you can keep doing what you’re doing. At the end of the day, you pivot and do what is best for you and your customers.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I love the process of planning for an event.
Creating new flavors of cookies, setting up, and then being there to see your product being enjoyed by so many. I am a social person so being able to connect with my customers is so important. I love hearing their stories and recipe ideas!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
In my spare time, I love to collect and sell vintage bakeware items. I always love finding old vintage cookie jars that I display on my table at most markets. I love to cook for my husband Tom and enjoy being with family!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @sugarbuttermn
- Facebook: Sugar Butter Mpls
