Today we’d like to introduce you to Janell Richmond.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was never a baker but I always enjoyed cooking. When the cupcake craze happened in 2008/2009, I found myself patronizing many cupcake shops….some good but mostly not so great. A friend of mine suggested that since I seemed to be a connoisseur, that maybe I should start making my own. Better yet, how about alcohol infused cupcakes. Fast forward to 2011, I was just settling into my NYC life and reality began to set in…What am I going to do with the rest of my life?! At this point I was working in restaurant and while the money was good, I wasn’t fulfilled. So I bought my first stand mixer and started experimenting with recipes. I was taking classic cocktails and creating cupcakes using those flavors. I started bringing them to work and getting feedback from co-workers. This is when I learned that I had a passion for baking. I started doing sponsorship events and working with various wine and spirit companies. However, with starting a business and working full time, I burned out quickly. I decided to quit my job and move back to Chicago to figure things out. Went to culinary school, did catering for a while but I found myself back to baking. In 2016, I saw a for rent sign on a mall kiosk and inquired about it. A few months later I was operating my very own dessert kiosk. I did that for about a year and realized that I was ready for my own storefront. Currently I am building out a space for my first location in the Bronzeville neighborhood on the Southside of Chicago. I’m so excited because this neighborhood has so much history and I can’t wait to share my passion. We are set to open in late spring/early summer 2018.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Of course! Being an entrepreneur is one of the hardest things to do. Mostly just figuring things out. Finding out what works and doesn’t work for your business. The most important thing is preservice….entrepreneurs make a way when most people can’t.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Emeche Cupcakes – what should we know?
Emeche Cupcakes specializes in Gourmet desserts. We started off doing alcohol infused cupcakes in NYC. But here in Chicago we are known for our desserts in a jar, banana pudding is our most popular flavor.
I am most proud of how far I have come. What started off as an idea turned into a passion. Now 7 years later I am on track to opening up my very first location.
What sets me apart from others is my support system. I could not have gotten this far without the support of my Mom, brother and friends. They have all been an essential part of the business and me becoming who I am today. They are my biggest cheerleaders. For that I will always be grateful to me them. I am truly blessed.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My Mom has been instrumental in the business this past year. She took on the role as operations manager when I had the Kiosk in the mall. She has been there to hear my frustrations and complaints but has also been my biggest cheerleader. She’s my voice of reason and also my problem solver. I couldn’t have done it without her. Also, my future sister in law, who actually worked the Kiosk for me and really showed that she cared about the success of the business. My brother of course who is always trying to connect me with the right people to help promote the business. And my best and dear friends here in Chicago and NYC who have supported me and worked for free (or desserts) all to help my dreams come true.
Contact Info:
- Address: Emechecupcakes@gmail.com
- Phone: 7085724052
- Instagram: Emechecupcakes
- Facebook: Emechecupcakes
Image Credit:
Paula Everett, Ariel Neal, Tiara Damper, Lisa Brown, Alexis Brown
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