Meet Jennifer Barr | Cupcake lady

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

Hi Jennifer, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
As a single mom, I wanted to make sure my daughter knew the value of respect and hard work. I felt like it was important to make sure she always understood that no matter what – who you talk to, what is said, and how you feel – you should respect everyone and their differences. And that you can even learn from those differences. It wasn’t always easy; she (we) went through some crazy pre-teen and teen years together. Many doors were shut in anger (by her) and I gave her space needed to settle down before trying to talk to her and educate her on why some things were not proper. I also supported my daughter, and I always will, to pursue her dream. As part of that process, I would hear her say to me that I needed to pursue mine. This is where the bakery comes in. She has been supportive of me in my endeavors with the bakery. She has helped me with some photos and social media work. She is always trying to give me ideas. My daughter is my best friend and I am proud to say she did pursue her dream also. She dug her teeth in when it was most difficult and is a fantastic, responsible, mindful and respectful young lady. Every day that I talk to her, I’m so thankful that I dug my heels in with her and continued to discipline her even when she would get very angry at me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I was younger, my father encouraged me to draw. He encouraged me to be creative and see where my mind would take me. I spent many years drawing and designing things (some where awful, some were pretty damn good). I won an award for best black/white 3D; placements in cartoon-type work and abstract art with paper. There were frustrating times as I was always seeking perfection. I decided to set all that aside because I decided that it was better off being just a hobby but in back of my mind, I knew I wanted to do something in the future artistic. I spent 30 years in the corporate world. Got burnt out and after talking it over with my husband, decided to venture out and take a chance. Who doesn’t love cupcakes, cakes, ice cream and cookies made with love, sugar and some fun! However, this has not been an easy journey at all. I thought I was picking a location that would be easily accessible to the public. While it is, it’s hidden and people still don’t seem to find us. We struggle with our walk in traffic – this was even before the COVID mess. I have a parking lot of things I really want to do but I’m balancing the passion for those with making it through every day and perfecting our product. We have amazing products. I definitely eat our cupcakes, cookies and ice cream. I believe that you have to try your product before you can sell it. You have to believe in what you do before you can experience or convince others we are the best. We will continue to make quality products and look forward to challenges our customers do present when it comes to cakes. As a local, female owner, people need to know that they should pursue their dreams and keep on challenging themselves. Finally, one thing I hear a lot of our customers say is that our customer service is phenomenal. We also welcome feedback, suggestions and so on. Our goal is to provide our customers with a fantastic sweet treat made fresh daily!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Whoa, there is so much in Colorado it’s hard to narrow it down and really people need to stay at least two weeks to get a good feel for us and what Colorado has to offer. With that in mind, and since my friends did just come out for a weekend visit (which wasn’t long enough at all); I would make sure to hit Sushi Den. This is my all-time favorite sushi joint. I can’t even remember how I found it and unfortunately don’t get there as much as I’d like but every time I’ve been there, it has never disappointed. Absolutely, need to take them to Garden of the Gods or the Manitou Incline. These sites are so calming, well after you go up the 2200+ steps, and you realize how thankful you are. We have to visit the Great Divide Brewery, Breckenridge, and walk all over downtown Denver. Stop in a brewery, grab a drink, meet other locals, and hit the next place. You learn so much talking to folks. I’m sure I could go on and on but this is a good start to the first couple of days!

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?
I am very blessed because I have an amazing support system. My husband who supports me every day so that I can continue to pursue my passion. He listens to me every time I need him to. Friends that I have known for 25 years – yep – that long. We’ve been through so many things together and still love each other, probably more than when we were younger. They also support me as I continue to think of new ideas and of course they are always willing to try a new cupcake flavor. 🙂 And the community- the Centennial community is off the hook – I love the recommendations and I love when people contact me and say “I’ve been told I have to try your cupcakes. And I hear you make your ice cream in-house.” That warms my heart and when I get discouraged, I seem to get a message like this.

Website: www.smallcakescolorado.com
Instagram: @smallcakescolorado
Twitter: CSmallcakes
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SmallcakesCupcakery
Other: We are on Doordash, GrubHub and EZCater