Madison Ruta is a 21-year-old senior at Texas A&M University. I sat down with her to ask some questions about her life and career as a business owner and full-time student.
How did you know you wanted to start your own business?
Sophomore year I was really lost on what I wanted to do when I graduated and then I realized that I spent all my time watching cookie videos or looking up new techniques and products. I realized that’s what I was passionate about and that’s what I wanted to do with my life
When did you create the business?
I officially created Mad About Cakes this past summer (May 2016) but had been doing the orders out of my house for a year before that.
What services do you offer?
My main specialty is custom decorated sugar cookies but I also do cakes, cupcakes, cake balls and more.
Who was your first client?
The first order I ever sold was to my History teacher in 11th grade. They were for her son’s birthday and were killer whale and dolphin cookies.
Did you face any obstacles?
I’ve definitely faced a lot of obstacles, my biggest one right now is school. It’s tough because I want to spend all my time working on my business but I have to balance my time with school, work, and extracurricular activities.
Who has been your biggest supporter?
I’ve received an overwhelming amount of support from family and friends but my biggest supporter is definitely my mom. She’s the reason behind my love of baking and is always doing whatever she can to help me out (even if it means cleaning up my mess in the kitchen).
Where do you want to take your business in the future?
My goal is to open up my own shop somewhere in Colorado. I want it to be a bakery that does custom cakes, cookies, cupcakes, etc, but also sell fancy coffee and have books. I want it to have a warm homey feeling where people come to hang out and relax.
What is your favorite thing to make?
Definitely cookies. They are so time consuming but I love all the detail that goes into each cookie.
What has been your favorite set of cookies to make?
That’s a tough one. I always finish a set and say it’s my new favorite but I really like them all. I think if I had to choose a favorite however, it’d be the mermaid themed bridal shower set because I loved the colors and it was such a fun theme!
What advice do you have for a woman looking to start her own business?
Your passions aren’t random — pursue them, even if it scares you. And most importantly, believe in yourself!
Be sure to follow her Instagram at _mad_about_cakes_!