One of the things that makes this place we call home so special is the incredible small businesses that make up this community. I had the chance to connect with a local small business owner recently who grew up right here in Brentwood, and is now giving back to her community as a teacher by day, cookier by nights and weekends. Courtney from Rosewood Sweets had a lot to share about why she's so passionate about what she does and why she does it right here in Brentwood. Here's a peek into our conversation:
What inspired you to start your business?
I am a high school teacher and teaching during the pandemic was extremely difficult so I picked up a hobby. I started with cocoa bombs first and they progressed to cake pops. I started making decorated sugar cookies in March 2022 and my business has really taken off since then.
What do you love most about what you do?
I am a really creative person and my business allows me to have a creative outlet that is very different than my day job. I also love the expression on peoples faces when they receive my work or they see it at a vendor event or they pick up their custom order. It makes me really happy to see that my cookies are making someone else happy.
What tips would you give someone looking for a professional in your field?
My biggest recommendation is to view the work of the person that you are hiring. Everyone has a different style, and you want to find the cookier that really fits the style of what you are looking for and cookies. And just like with most services, you get what you pay for. My cost not only includes my time and my ingredients, but it also includes my experience, and the time that I have spent perfecting my craft.
What do you love about working in the Brentwood area?
I have lived in Brentwood since I was eight years old. I’ve seen it grow to the large city that it is now. I love working in the town that has given so much to me and being able to give back to organizations that helped me as a child and young adult. And even though it has grown, it still has such a large emphasis on small businesses and helping local business owners. That’s a really special thing that you don’t find in many large cities. Brentwood is a very unique place, and I am very lucky to have called at my home for almost 30 years now.
Anything exciting coming up for your business you'd like to share?
One of my favorite parts about my job is teaching cookie decorating classes. We taught over 30 classes in 2023 and we’re looking to expand that this year. This includes adding advanced classes as well as more kids classes.
If you had a day off and were staying local, what would you love to do around town?
I love attending our Farmers' Market. I think it’s one of the best that I’ve ever been to and I really appreciate that it is year-round. And the fact that there are so many small businesses in downtown that are open while it’s going on, just makes it extra special. I also love attending on days where there are markets in the park or the Makers Boulevard because then you really get to see the full scope of entrepreneurs that we have in our area.
Do you have any special offers for our readers you'd like to share?
I will be offering 10% off of any custom order that is booked when this article is mentioned. It is a two dozen minimum. We are currently booking 2 to 4 months out.
I think I just found my new go-to for all my teacher gifts and party favors!
To connect with Courtney from Rosewood Sweets visit her website:
Follow her on Facebook and Instagram
@RosewoodSweets
Email her to inquire about placing a custom order
Rosewoodsweets@gmail.com
