In this episode, Laura and Megan have the pleasure of sitting down with Jess Williams, the owner and artistic genius behind Little Sparks Cookies. Together, they delve into Jess's remarkable journey through the realms of entrepreneurship, marriage, and motherhood, offering insights into her diverse experiences and the lessons she's learned along the way.
Origin Story: A native Texan, Jess harbored a lifelong dream of making it big in Los Angeles. Her journey began at 17, when she embarked on a path of saving money by decorating cakes at a bakery, all in pursuit of her West Coast aspirations. Upon finally reaching LA at 18, she found herself baking cookies for the families she babysat for, which organically blossomed into a burgeoning business as demand for her delectable creations spread to school functions and beyond. A pivotal moment arrived during her internship at Sony, where a family she worked for encouraged her to share her cookies, leading to her first corporate order and eventually, prestigious collaborations with major TV shows. A decade later, Jess continues to thrive, fueled by a passion for her craft and the invaluable mentorship she received from the astute parents of the children she once cared for. Despite lacking financial support from her own family for her LA venture, Jess's journey is a testament to perseverance and the pursuit of one's dreams.
She learned a lot of from the parents of the kids she babysat. They were all ahead of her in business and helped boost her business acumen. Despite having her family's moral support, they were not able to help with her move to and life in L.A. from a financial standpoint. As a parent now, she can't imagine letting her son move across the country on his own at the age of 18. Raised by parents who led by example, Jess believes is providing a safe space to explore all life as to offer.
Main Ingredients for Success: At the core of Jess's success lies an unwavering work ethic; she has never missed a deadline and can effortlessly handle orders of a thousand cookies. Time management is another key component, as she meticulously calculates the time needed for each cookie, ensuring freshness and quality with every batch. While many bakers opt for freezing, Jess prioritizes the artistry of her creations which sets her apart.
Balancing Entrepreneurship, Marriage, and Parenthood: The narrative takes an unexpected turn with the introduction of Jess's husband, Neen Williams, a former Hollywood "bad boy" professional skater turned health advocate. Their collaborative spirit and mutual support have fueled not only Jess's journey but also Neen's evolution from skateboarding icon to entrepreneur, with ventures ranging from Whole Foods partnerships to owning businesses like NADC Burger and NADC Spice Rubs. Together, they've found balance between urban allure and suburban tranquility, splitting their time between Fort Worth and Chicago to accommodate their growing family's needs.
For Jess, parenthood has brought about a shift in priorities, prompting her to establish clear boundaries and focus on larger orders to optimize her time spent with her son. With a commitment to maintaining a serene mindset, she and Neen emphasize regimented schedules and efficient time management, ensuring they don't succumb to stress amidst their bustling lives. Their journey underscores the importance of prioritizing happiness, setting boundaries, and cherishing moments with loved ones above all else.
Ultimately, Jess's story serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us to pursue our passions with unwavering determination, safeguard our boundaries, and prioritize what truly matters in life. For more information on our guest Jess Williams, you can follow her at:
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