Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Tessa Sam, who launched her dream career when she opened up Vancouver’s beloved Sweet Bake Shop in Yaletown. Here’s what advice she would share with other young professionals and where she sees herself in five years…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I’m the owner and head baker at my little boutique bakery, Sweet Bake Shop.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started my company in 2010 because baking is my passion and I wanted to get paid to do what I love. After years of running my business from home, I opened a storefront location this past summer and I couldn’t be happier. I left my broadcasting job in 2008 because I was so unhappy – I needed to do something that allowed me to be hands-on creative.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I love having brainstorm sessions with my staff about new cake/cookie designs and flavours – we have so much fun coming up with new ideas. Interacting with our lovely customers is always fun. The most challenging part is time management – there never seems to be enough time to accomplish everything I’d like to.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
I forget things all the time. I will almost certainly forget what you told me a few minutes ago, unless I write it down immediately. My staff have now become accustomed to leaving me sticky notes in point form (and laughing at me when I forget what I was saying mid-sentence). It’s kind of ridiculous.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see multiple baking books, one or two more locations (possibly international), more baking video tutorials, a line of quality Sweet Bake Shop bakeware, possibly a TV show… there are so many ideas pop into my head every day. But hey, dream big, right?
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Dealing with less-than-lovely people has been challenging and I’ve found that being patient, calm and rising above the situation is usually the best route to take.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success can definitely be defined by making money, absolutely. I think it’s important that you’re happy while you’re making money though, otherwise it’s not worth the effort.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
So far, it was opening the storefront in Yaletown. It was something that I dreamed of for years, and it was finally made a reality this past summer.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Work hard, stay focused, sleep when you can. Realize that you may have to work for little to no pay in order to gain the experience you need to get to where you want to be – I’ve definitely done it and can tell you that it was worth it.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
The Oakwood, westOak & Acme Cafe. Great food and atmosphere.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Researching new recipe ideas, traveling to far-away places and I love a good Sunday morning brunch with friends.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I’m obsessed with South East Asia – Bali, Thailand and Singapore to be exact. Great weather, lovely people, and always such good food!
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I really don’t know. I have days where I dream of living on a beach, mixing cocktails or waxing surfboards for a living. But who doesn’t dream of that sometimes? I also love taking photos, so perhaps I’d be a photographer. I’d also like to host a baking show. I’m just happy that I get to do what I do, at least for now.
What to you is notable?
To me, it’s the people who put in the long hours, stay up late, and pass up the parties in order to achieve the success they absolutely want and deserve. I have such a high level of respect for those who have the willpower to stay in on the weekends and work in order to get to where they feel they need to be in order to be successful.
iPhone, Blackberry, Android or Other?
I’m all about my iPhone 6.
#NOTABLE
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