We had the good fortune of connecting with Carrie DeCicco and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Carrie, how do you think about risk?
Risk…..such a scary word for a lot of people! For me (so far) the risk has been low. I haven’t invested a ton of money into this so if I suddenly decide I don’t want to do this anymore I can literally just stop without loosing anything……except for a lot of sad customers! I’m starting to think about what the future of my business looks like because I’m starting to get so busy….but the risk? What if I open a store front and no one comes? What if I decide to have a store front and I don’t have any time for my family? Is it too risky? Such a scary word! BUT sometimes with risk comes reward! I’ll never know unless I try! Only God knows what’s in store for me and right now I’m trusting that He will lead me down the right path.
What should our readers know about your business?
My business is simple. I make cookies and cinnamon rolls. I called it Salt Sweets because I sprinkle a little bit of kosher salt on all my finished product. Its the perfect balance of salt and sweet. I have 14 different flavors of cookies and 2 flavors of cinnamon rolls. I’m branching out a bit and adding things to my menu like oatmeal creme pies and ice cream sandwiches. I’ve also decided to take the plunge and build a website! This is a big step for me! I like to do these things slowly so I don’t feel rushed or too overwhelmed and I want to make sure things are done right and I’m prepared. None of this is easy! I’ve never done anything like this before but I wouldn’t change it for anything! I LOVE it! I love the feedback I get from my customers who say “Oh my word I’ve never tasted cinnamon rolls that good”……….that’s when all the hard work makes it worth it!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many fun things to do in Dallas but the 1 thing we all know well is our restaurants! If my best friend was here to visit here how my week would go down-with no kids- *Dinner or brunch at RM 12;20 bistro-literally have never had one bad thing there and the drinks are amazing *Arbortetum *First Monday trade days in Canton (it’s worth it just for the people watching alone) *Katy Trail Ice House *Dallas Farmers Market *Ham Orchard (I would go just for the peach ice cream alone!) *Northpark to shop till we drop (best mall EVER)
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are 3 people that I would love to give recognition to that have played a big part in my success. First is Erin Willis. She is the chef and owner of a wonderful restaurant here in Lake Highlands called RM 12:20 and she just happens to be my Nieghbor. She was the one who pushed me to start selling my cookies, added them to her business, followed by the cinnamon rolls. She has helped me with advertising, tons of advice, aesthetics, an even helping me pick my business name. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be doing any of this! Thank You Erin! Second is my husband Larry. He has supported me and encouraged me throughout this whole crazy process. He is so important to me on the business and numbers side (that part I’m not good at) and takes a realistic approach to my questions and decisions that I need to make. He has helped me with the kids and housework when I have been completely overwhelmed with orders and is always encouraging me take the next step! Thank You Larry! Third is my friend Jonika Nix. She got my products in front of people that I otherwise would have never been able to and that has made my business grow tremendously! She took the time to meet with me and give me advice and contacts when I first started out and helped me with packaging, taste, and advertising. I love when women support each other! Thank You Jonika!
Instagram: @salt.sweets
Facebook: @saltsweetsdfw
Other: email: info@saltsweets.com