Meet Bernielle Elsey | Owner & Baker

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

Hi Bernielle, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought of doing something I love, and making a living doing it. I didn’t see myself working in corporate America the rest of my life. I wanted to start a business that would set me up for retirement and build something I could pass to my kids.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I bake and I bake with love. I love to see the joy in someone’s face when they take that first bite. I love to create sweets that mimic actually things. The one comment I get all the time is…” It’s pretty and it tastes good too!”.

I used to make box lemon cakes with my dad as a kid but I am a self taught baker. When I got older, I started baking from scratch and I have not been able to stop. I started baking pound cakes and cheesecakes in college and I would give them away. My best friend pushed me to start selling them and that’s when I started to make it a business. A lot of trial and error learning different ways to bake. It has not been easy but I tell myself that when you want something, you have to work hard for it and you have to work hard to perfect your craft. I have had several “all nighters” to get an order done for a client. I’ve also dealt with setbacks and limitations, especially because I am based out of my home. I continue to push through.

I have tried to stop baking and I can’t. I put my all in every order. I get excited when clients request cakes and they give me a theme to base a cake or cupcakes on. My creativity starts to brew. I want the world to know that I’m the baker that wants to put that smile on your face with quality baked goods.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When we go out or have visitors, I try to go to places I have not tried yet. I try to see what’s going on that week. We always try to go to Mary Mac’s. Sweet Auburn BBQ is another gem. Another stop is Ponce City Market. The shops are nice and there are some really great spots in the food court. You can always find something to do and something good to eat in the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have a village! Too many to mention! My parents fostered and supported my craft. My Best friend Nicole pushed me to sell my cakes in college. My family and friends support and challenge me and my creativity. They all know who they are. My cousin Kendra tries to keep me organized and balanced. My daughters and my son always encourage me. As I said, I thank my “Village” for the support, love and encouragement.

Website: www.beessugabuzz.com

Instagram: @beessugabuzz

Facebook: BEE’S Sugabuzz