Meet Chelsey Ferris | Owner & Pastry Chef of The Sugar Crumble

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

What should our readers know about your business?
The Sugar Crumble, a bakery based in Charleston, South Carolina, has carved a unique niche for itself in the local community by specializing in the creation of meticulously decorated with icing and hand painted, custom-made cookies. IIn addition to creating custom orders, open and private classes are hosted to teach others or just for fun. The bakery also funds a small non-profit called ‘Bags of Love’ that provides foster children with brand new duffle bags. I take immense pride in the strong network of relationships that have been built over the years, fostering sustainable connections with businesses, non-profits, and other clients.

I have had the privilege of contributing my artistic freedom to a diverse array of events, from high-profile photoshoots sponsored by renowned fashion brands like Dior, Modern Luxury Jezebel Magazine to local weddings, businesses and personal celebrations. I have found that opportunities to be a part of these special moments in an artistic capacity are deeply fulfilling and a true gift.

As a small business owner, my journey to success has been marked by a series of challenges and adversities. While navigating the strategic growth of my bakery, I have also had to confront personal obstacles, such as being a full-time mother and provider of three boys and finding a healthy balance between my professional and family responsibilities. Before I quit my previous salary position to pursue my business full time, I was working 80 hours a week between the job and keeping my business afloat. Being resilient in the face of adversity, building relationships, and understanding long-term and short-term sacrifices is what greatly contributes to how I grew my business to where it is today.

There have been many lessons I have learned from being a small business owner. I’d like to talk about a few that I find to be really applicable in all of life, not just in the aspect of running a business. First, don’t be afraid to hear the answer ‘no’. Seek information, ask questions, and the worst-case scenario is that you will be in the same place you are now. Don’t be afraid to fail, failure can open up doors that were not previously available. Secondly, don’t ever stop building or fostering relationships. This is something I always talk about, and all aspects of running a business or succeeding in life trickle down and wide from the foundation of your relationships.

My brand and story are an extension of my deeper self. The ability to get to use my artistic freedom to create art for some of peoples most significant life events is a way that I bring my inner world to the outer world. I have Aspergers, and living artistically is not only what is healthiest for me, but it gives me an outlet to connect with others in meaningful way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Charleston is the best place to be a tourist in! We would go to the Gibbes Art Musuem and enjoy the architectural beauty of old churches and buildings on our walk there. Afterwords, we would walk down and grab some coffee at Bitty & Beau’s coffee shop, then make our way back the pineapple fountain to enjoy the weather and water view. For dinner, we could go to The Rooftop at the Vendue and explore the art museum while we wait for our table to be ready, then overlook the city with great food and a cocktail! We’d enjoy the beach at Folly and have lunch on the pier and then find some local music on the island at night. I’d love to show off the historical places such as the old forts, provost dungeon, city market for some local shopping, too.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have been absolutely blessed with support from all over in the Lowcountry. Many connections first began at the church I attended and worship lead at, Awaken Church, and it was because of building strong relationships with others there that allowed my business to grow into what it is today. I am very thankful for everyone and anyone that has supported my business in anyway, I remember every person who does and hold them close to my heart.

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

Image Credits
Shelby Price Photography