Baking hobbyist turns professional baker, thanks to “unparalleled support” in Somerset

Stacie’s Sweets and Eats operated as a hobby business for 10 years before becoming an official business.

Starting in her kitchen making birthday cakes for her children, Stacie Custer has learned that sweets are the way to her customers’ hearts.

Stacie’s Sweets and Eats became an official business after 10 years as a kitchen hobby. “When my orders outgrew my kitchen, I knew it was time to make things official or give up baking.”

Custer said that her hobby wouldn’t be where it is today without the help of Startup Alleghenies, JARI and SBDC. “It is such a fantastic program,” she said. “They team up with entrepreneurs every step of the way to propel them to success. I am truly grateful.”

Stacie Custer says that starting in Somerset was ideal because of the supportive community.

In addition to Startup Alleghenies, Custer said she had many people in her corner. “I gained the confidence to pursue this business because of the encouragement I constantly receive from friends and family,” she shared.

And at the core of her passion are her kids. “I started baking because of my two sons,” she added. “I wanted to succeed for them and prove to myself that I could own a successful business.”

She noted that she is successful indeed. “We run out of almost everything daily,” she said. “People love their sweets, and we add new items to the menu to keep their tastebuds coming back for more.”

Custer says that the bakery runs out of things “constantly” because of the popularity of its baked goods.

“Stacie creates beautifully crafted cakes and more,” Startup Alleghenies coach Matt Reckner shared. “Her creativity is unleashed when she is in the kitchen, and her customers enjoy her mastery.”

Custer said that the support in the Alleghenies is unparalleled. “Somerset County is a great place to start a business,” she said, “because of the outpouring of support from residents and other small businesses.”

And if you have a dream to transform your hobby into a business, Custer has this advice— “Follow your dreams, listen to every word of advice and always stay true to yourself.”

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.