5 ways a cookie decorating class can grow your bakery business.

Running a cookie business it tough. From marketing to bookkeeping to customer service it can feel like you’re always on the hamster wheel of taking and baking orders all while still not hitting the revenue goals you had hoped for. Or at least that was my experience for the first couple of years of running my cookie business. And that’s when I decided to get creative …. I saw sip and paint classes taking off in my local town and I thought cookies would be a great format for a class …. It’s just like a sip and paint class except if your cookies turn out kind of crumby who cares because at the end of the day cookies are meant to be eaten !

What I didn’t realize at the time was a that teaching these classes also added significant value to my business so here are 5 things cookie decorating classes can do that will help grow your business.

1. Draw in Fresh Faces:

Cookie decorating classes are like a magnet for new customers. Everyone loves the idea of getting creative with cookies! Whether it's kids looking for a fun day out or adults in search of a unique social activity, these classes appeal to a wide range of people. Promote them through your website, social media, and local ads, and you'll attract people who might not have noticed your bakery otherwise. And once they've had a taste of your delicious cookies and had a super fun night out decorating, they're more likely to become raving fans of your small but mighty business.

2. Bake Up Loyalty:

Cookie decorating classes create a sense of community and loyalty among your customers. When people take part in these classes, they feel like they're part not just a customer but a part of your baking community. They'll cherish the chance to learn from your talented bakers and decorators, making them want to come back for more sweet experiences. I love to send out a discount to my past students for future classes as a way to thank them and continue to build up my local community of cookie fanatics!

3. Mix Up Your Money Streams:

Aside from adding a little more fun to your bakery, cookie decorating classes bring in extra cash. While selling baked goods is your main gig, classes can be a fantastic side hustle. Charge participants a fee to cover ingredient costs, instructor fees, and of course your time. This extra income can help you weather the ups and downs of the bakery biz, since we all know running your own business is far from being a stable source of income.

4. Show Off Your Baking Skills:

Most Cookiers have taken years to perfect their craft and classes are a super fun show off your bakery's expertise and artistry. As you teach folks the ropes of cookie decorating, they'll see firsthand the skill and love that goes into your creations. This transparent approach can boost your bakery's reputation and make you the talk of the town. Plus, happy class-goers will spread the word, giving your bakery some extra street cred.

5. Bake Up Some Social Media Magic:

The last thing I love about cookie decorating classes is the amount of organic “buzz” they create both online and offline. Participants will be eager to share their cookie masterpieces on social media, tagging your bakery in the process. This user-generated content can help you build a buzz on social platforms, giving you more visibility and engagement. It's a budget-friendly way to market your bakery and reach a wider audience, including potential customers in your local area! ( Can I get a Wahoo!)

Let me teach you how to Host your very Fist Cookie Decorating Class!

Ready to create a second sting of income in your bakery and start hosting your very own cookie decorating classes? If so I’ve got the course for you ! I created Cookie Host Academy for bakers just like you who are ready to dive into the world of Cookie Decorating Classes! All for the price of just one cookie class ticket ($47). This 75 minute course is my go to system on how to teach classes in your local community. You can learn more about Cookie Host Academy  Here ! Let's grow your bakery business together, one class at a time! 🍪

Happy Baking !

~ Kaitlyn