Meet Amanda Alcaraz: Cookie Artist & Mom

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Alcaraz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Balancing my time has been a struggle of mine since I first started my small business. I am such a people pleaser, that I have problems saying no. I would overbook myself and work myself sick to where I couldn’t get out of bed the next day because I was so nauseous, the room would start spinning. I just felt I had to do all the things all the time. I would think okay, if I start now I’ll be done by this time and then I’ll have time for family things or catchup on household tasks. But the reality is, I am only one person. I can only do so much at a time without sacrificing my sanity. So, very slowly but surely, I have started cutting back on how much work I take on. Saying no to things that don’t make me happy. And just being the best healthiest version of myself that I can be, not only for my business but for my family as well.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am the owner of The Yellow Rose Cookie Co., which speacilizes in custom decorate sugar cookies. Whether it be for birthday parties, weddings, or corporate events. You dream it and I can bring it to life. I feel what sets me apart from most is my attention to details and perfectionism. I put my whole heart and soul into everything I make. I hold myself up to high standards, to where there have been many times that I have absolutely hated how a cookie set came out that I threw everything away and started over. It’s just me. Its who I am. I feel my clients deserve the absolute best. In the beginning it was hard. It took me almost a year to feel even ready to sell my cookies to others. I couldn’t get consistencies right with my icing. My cookies spread and wouldn’t keep their shape. Just alot of trial and error. But, with constant practice and lots and lots of patience, It eventually clicked for me. One thing that I love most about this business, is that you can never stop learning and growing.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I have lived in Fort Worth my entire life. If anyone wanted to visit I would definitely have them checkout the stockyards. It is one of Fort Worth’s biggest attractions. From rodeos to live music to western shopping. Sundance square aka downtown, is home to tons of small business with great food and atmosphere. Risky’s Bbq is one of my favorite places to eat. Another favorite of mine is Schakolad Chocolate Factory, I love me some chocolate. Fort Worth is also a short distance to Arlington, home of the Texas Rangers and The Dallas Cowboys. You of course can’t come without checking out a game or two.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Let’s be real. It takes a village! I can absolutely without a doubt give credit to my husband and family for their constant love and support and for always cheering me on. My friends and clients who believe and trust in me to bring their visions to life through cookies. And most importantly my kids. Afterall, if it wasn’t for my youngest wanting those Flamingo cookies, I don’t think I would even be here!