We had the good fortune of connecting with Samantha Ward and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samantha, what do you think about risk?
I think risk taking is playing a huge role in my life/career because I am making sure each day I’m fearless. Risk taking/ fearlessness is about asking questions and asking to meet with individuals that I feel can help my brand grow. Also, not knowing what questions to ask but seeking guidance, reading and meditating. This is a new industry for me. I came from the New York Fashion Industry. I have two fashion degrees and fashion has been my comfort zone for so long. The Baking industry is new and can be intimidating because I’m not a trained Baker but I respect the craft. I greatly respect this new industry and I have to take risks in order to explore it and become knowledgeable and successful in it.

What should our readers know about your business?
I believe with businesses in all industries focusing on what makes your brand different and unique is most important. Also, remembering you’re not the first person to grace your industry is important because it helped me know that I needed to set myself and my brand apart and become well known for something that wasn’t being offered elsewhere.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Friday night we would head to Virginia Highlands for an evening at BeetleCat or Barcelona Wine bar. Saturday morning, I would definitely want to check out the Farmers Market. Afterwards an amazing art gallery like the Zugot gallery, then tea and food at The Ginger Room in Alpharetta. After resting at home, we would go to dinner at a great seafood/vegetarian restaurant like The Optimist or Atrium at Ponce City Market where there’s great ambiance. Sunday I would suggest my favorite gym Lifetime for a strength training workout or a calming Yoga class. We would then head home for a home cooked meal and healthy desserts followed by a movie that makes us laugh.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Mentorship is important. My husband Joel is my continued support system. Joel is smart and has a great mind. He makes sure I’m pushing the limits and learning all that I can learn to master my craft and improve my brand. He’s no nonsense, no excuses and I really appreciate that because it leaves no room for second guessing. My 3 boys are amazingly inspiring in different ways. Grant (6), attends events with me from time to time and is a future entrepreneur himself. He promotes my brand as well as his own (Grant & Nolan’s Zero Sugar Lemonade) and I really appreciate the way we teach each other. Nolan (4), is my compassionate supporter who is very much spiritually guided, so we pray a lot. Micah (2), is the inspiration behind it all and is the reason why I started Orchid’s Baked Goods. Micah is allergic to 7 of the top 8 Allergens.

The books that have helped are: The Wealthy Gardner by John Soforic, The E Myth by Michael Gerber, Thoughts Create by Dr. Karen Hypolite, Pay Day to Profits by Mary Vidarte,

Website: www.orchidsbakedgoods.com

Instagram: delicious_orchidscookies

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-ward-010a2a220/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083031456817

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuxoPy4h8u0Lxxz2T8iVEag

Image Credits
Campbell Washington Photography Sue Trafford Photography Chelsea Patricia Photo

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