Meet Rylee Carter | Baker and Owner of Treats By Rylee

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

Hi Rylee, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
One of the biggest things that contributed to my success thus far is my drive and determination. I’ve always been somewhat of an entrepreneur; I started my first little bakery business in 5th grade, selling to teachers and parents at my elementary school, and it’s very full circle to be where I am now. I knew I never wanted to work for anyone else, so everyday that I am working on my business, I’m thinking about how to make this the job I get to do for the rest of my working life. I’m genuinely excited to work on my business, which I believe is part of what got me this far.
The goal of being able to provide for my family in the future weighs heavily on me 24/7. I have a pretty clear picture of what I would like my life to look like in 5 years, 10 years, etc., and while things don’t always go to plan, I know that is what I’m striving towards.

What should our readers know about your business?
Treats By Rylee is a home-based bakery that specializes in custom cakes, cupcakes, and much more! I started my business in November 2020, just because I needed a hobby to keep me busy! At first, I was baking tons of random desserts like different types of cookies, pies, brownies, and dessert bars, but a few months later I really nailed down my niche and began selling my cakes full time. I’m most proud that I am completely self-taught; I don’t have any fancy pastry degrees, but I do have a passion for baking and tons of creativity.

Business-wise, it was not easy to get where I am now. Information and tips on where I’m trying to get to in my business is very limited, so I’ve figured out most of this on my own, through trial and error. I was 17 when I started my business, so you can imagine how little knowledge I had at the beginning. But now, I keep a little quote in the back of my mind at all times: “The more you learn, the more you earn.”

Along the way, I’ve learned it’s so important to know your numbers, and in any small business, to make sure you are paying yourself AND that your business is profiting. It may sound so obvious, but many small business owners forego paying themselves in order to grow the business. I understand the thought process (because I was there too!), but if you build your business on strong foundations, you can have the best of both worlds.

I think it’s easy to get lost in my work as a baker, but it’s equally as important to focus on being a good owner and “CEO”, and learning as much as you possibly can about each aspect of your business, such as customer service, financials, marketing, and strategic planning. I do want everyone to know that I am only 20, and have been able to figure a majority of this out, so there’s no reason why anyone else can’t too!

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?
First and foremost, I am a huge Disney lover, so of course I’d recommend a day trip to Disneyland and California Adventure.
A nice restaurant in Newport Beach would definitely be up there on my list, my favorites are Gulfstream and Tommy Bahama! Then maybe stop by for some shopping at Fashion Island. I love the feel of the restaurants along Pacific Coast Highway, so you really can’t go wrong with a dinner + a view!
And lastly, one of my favorite things to do is to park right on the sand at Doheny Beach and have a little bonfire at sunset! There’s so much more, but Southern California is so beautiful, I’m sure you wouldn’t be short of any fun activities.

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 have a few people I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to—

My parents, for giving me endless amounts of love and support. I couldn’t have done any of this without them and they are my absolute rocks! I could go on and on about them, they are my greatest blessing.

My aunt, because she taught me to bake when I was 2 years old. Spending days at a time at her house baking tons of fun recipes was one of my favorite and most special childhood memories.

And my boyfriend, Nick! He is one of the most special people in my life. He has helped me grow in so many ways over the last 4+ years and I wouldn’t want to have anyone else by my side.

Website: www.treatsbyrylee.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/treatsbyrylee

Facebook: www.facebook.com/treatsbyrylee

Image Credits
Camryn Clair Photo