Meet Jessica Gillen | Decorated Cookie Business Owner/Cookie Decorator

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

Hi Jessica, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
The inspiration for my business came from a lifelong love affair with baking. My journey commenced with cakes, a passion that led me to pursue a formal culinary education. However, upon leaving culinary school, I encountered the harsh reality of the industry: the demand for seasoned professionals far exceeded opportunities for beginners like myself. Faced with this setback, I reluctantly set my bakery aspirations on the back burner.

When the pandemic upheaved our lives, I found myself at home with my nearly one-year-old child, seeking solace in the comforting embrace of baking. Rekindling my culinary flame, I rediscovered the joy and fulfillment it brought me.

Amidst the chaos of 2020, I decided to venture into the realm of decorated cookies—a leap of faith that would prove transformative. As I delved into this intricate art form, I was captivated by its limitless creative potential and the joy it brought to those who beheld my edible masterpieces.

So in 2022, Perfectly Sweet Cookies LLC emerged—a testament to my unwavering passion and resilience in the face of adversity. From humble beginnings and dashed dreams rose a thriving enterprise, fueled by love, determination, and the simple pleasure of sharing sweetness with the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Discovering my passion for decorated cookies has been an unexpected journey, one that fills me with pride as I reflect on the progress I’ve made in honing my skills. As I continue to dive deeper into the world of cookie decorating, I eagerly anticipate the growth and refinement of my skills. Through attending classes and learning from seasoned cookie decorators, I’ve expanded my knowledge base, constantly seeking new techniques to elevate my craft.

What truly sets my work apart is the dedication to tailoring each creation to the individual preferences and desires of my clients. I take great pride in crafting sets that are as unique as the individuals they’re made for. Replication is not in my vocabulary; instead, I strive to infuse every project with a distinctive touch that resonates with its recipient.

The path to establishing my business hasn’t been without its challenges. Navigating the intricacies of self-promotion and marketing has been a learning curve, one that I’m still navigating. Yet, despite the hurdles, the fulfillment I find in baking and decorating cookies transcends any obstacles. It’s a labor of love, a source of joy, and a therapeutic outlet for me.

The journey of building my brand and creating these edible works of art is a testament to my unwavering dedication and passion. Every challenge I encounter serves as a stepping stone toward realizing my vision, reaffirming that the pursuit of my dream is indeed worth every obstacle overcome.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When my best friend comes to visit, I always make sure to introduce them to some of the newest and most enjoyable spots in our area. Recently, I’ve been eager to take them to Prost Brewing, which has just opened its doors here in Northglenn. Conveniently located off I25 and 104th, it’s become one of our favorite hangout spots. Not only do they offer a german array of food options, but their selection of beers is equally impressive.

Another must-visit destination for us is Boardwalk Pizza, a local gem here in Northglenn. Our Friday nights wouldn’t be complete without indulging in their mouthwatering pizzas, a tradition we’ve happily shared with our kids.

When it comes to fun-filled activities, we’re spoiled for choice. On a sunny day, there’s nothing better than spending hours at Water World, a place that promises excitement for both children and adults alike. Alternatively, a leisurely day at EB Rains Park, complete with paddle boating on the lake, never fails to delight.

These are just a few of the experiences my family cherishes, and I can’t wait to share them with my friends, offering them a glimpse into the vibrant and enjoyable moments we savor together.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The journey of growing my cookie decorating business has been enriched by the invaluable connections I’ve made along the way. Among them, one stands out – my dear friend and fellow cookie enthusiast, Cori I, whom I first encountered in the dynamic community of Sugar Cookie Marketing on Facebook.

From our initial interactions, it was evident that Cori possessed a wealth of knowledge and experience in the realm of cookie decoration. But our relationship quickly evolved beyond mere acquaintanceship; she became my confidante, my sounding board, and ultimately, my cherished companion in this entrepreneurial endeavor.

Countless late-night conversations, fueled by our shared passion for cookies and creativity, have cemented our bond. Whether bouncing ideas off each other or providing much-needed moral support during hectic cookie-decorating sessions, Cori has been a steadfast source of guidance and encouragement.

In Cori, I’ve found not only a mentor but also a kindred spirit – someone who understands the challenges and triumphs of pursuing one’s passion. Our connection transcends geographical boundaries, uniting us in a shared love for all things cookies and fostering a friendship that I cherish deeply.

Website: www.perfectlysweetcookies.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/perfectlysweetcookies

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perfectlysweetcookies