Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Hart.
Hi Brittany, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I love this question because the story behind the name HARTful Treats is really the story of how something sweet was born out of a difficult season.
In 2011, I was unexpectedly laid off from my job for two months after missing a mandatory training. It was a tough time—I was home without pay, trying to stay hopeful and keep my mind busy. One day, I decided to bake a strawberry shortcake for a friend’s birthday, just as a thoughtful gesture. I didn’t expect much from it, but the reaction was overwhelming. Everyone raved about the cake and asked where they could place an order. That single moment sparked something in me.
I hopped on Twitter and posted, “I’m about to start taking orders.” And to my surprise, the orders came rolling in—cakes, cobblers, pies—you name it. I began using old family recipes passed down from my grandmother, who was a gifted baker herself. What started as a few orders a week quickly grew into something consistent. I found myself reconnecting with joy, creativity, and purpose—right in my own kitchen.
It was my best friend who said, “Girl, this is a business. Let’s give it a name.” She came up with HARTful Treats, a perfect play on my last name, but also a reflection of what I put into every dessert—heart. I loved it instantly. I created a logo, made business cards, and just like that, my side hustle was born.
HARTful Treats has been more than a baking business—it’s been a healing space for me and a way to serve others. Every treat is made with intention, inspired by legacy, and meant to bring joy. And the name? It still reminds me that even in hard times, something beautiful can rise.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all—it’s been anything but smooth, but it’s been incredibly meaningful.
I’m a completely self-taught baker, so I’ve literally had to figure everything out along the way. I’ve never made a practice cake—every cake I’ve ever done has been an actual order. I only take on challenges I feel confident I can deliver on, but I still push myself creatively. One of my longest nights ended at 5:30 AM, sculpting every decorative piece by hand for a custom cake. I’m definitely a perfectionist, but that drive is what helps me turn every dessert into a piece of art.
There have been moments when I’ve felt completely overwhelmed—but somehow, when I step back and see the finished product, there’s always this beautiful sense of accomplishment. I love knowing that something I made becomes part of someone’s happiest moments. My creations often end up being the highlight of a celebration, and I don’t take that lightly. I get to be a small part of someone’s joy, and that means everything to me.
I’ve also baked through grief, through health challenges, and through seasons where life felt incredibly heavy. In those moments, baking became my therapy. It kept me grounded and gave me something to pour love into—even when everything around me felt uncertain. HARTful Treats has truly been my backbone. During the 10 months I was unemployed between July 2023 and May 2024, it became my only source of income. But more than that, it gave me purpose. It reminded me that I still had something to offer, something that could make people smile—even on the hardest days.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
HARTful Treats is a boutique baking business rooted in love, legacy, and creativity. I specialize in custom cakes and desserts for all occasions—birthdays, weddings, baby showers, graduations, and more. Everything is made from scratch with intentionality and care, often using family recipes passed down from my grandmother, who was a baker herself.
What I’m most known for are my one-of-a-kind, visually striking cakes that feel like edible art. I like to say that I don’t just bake—I create. Every design is unique, sculpted by hand, and tailored to the story of the person or event I’m baking for. Whether it’s a simple, elegant design or something bold and over-the-top, I pour heart into every detail.
What I’m most proud of is that HARTful Treats has remained true to its name. It’s not just about the sweets—it’s about the soul behind them. I’ve been able to bring joy during birthdays, comfort during funerals, and a sense of celebration to milestones big and small. I take pride in knowing that my treats have brought people together, sparked smiles, and helped create lasting memories.
What sets me apart is the intention. From the first consultation to the final sprinkle, I’m fully invested—not just in making something beautiful, but in making people feel seen and celebrated. I’m not in this just for the sale—I’m in it for the experience, the connection, and the chance to make someone’s day a little sweeter.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I was on this journey alone for a long time—figuring things out on my own, watching YouTube videos, and just trusting my instincts. But everything changed in 2018 when I reached out to two local bakers and asked if they needed help at their shop. I didn’t want any pay—I just wanted to learn. I was eager to see what it was like to run a full-scale, on-site bakery, and I was willing to come in during my free time just for the hands-on experience.
That opportunity became one of the most valuable parts of my journey. These women welcomed me in, saw my work, believed in my potential, and allowed me to work right alongside them. I had never taken a formal baking class, but they respected my skill, and being around them helped refine both my creativity and my craft. I’m so grateful for them—they’ve become my “Sugar Sisters,” and we’re still connected to this day.
So my advice for finding mentors or networking? Be humble, be curious, and don’t be afraid to ask. Sometimes the best way to learn is to serve—to show up, listen, and lend a hand. People are often willing to pour into you when they see that you’re genuinely passionate and willing to do the work. And those organic connections can turn into lifelong relationships that bless you far beyond business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bakesy.shop/b/hartful-treats
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hartfultreats?igsh=MTN0c284NWRkdnAzYQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
