Looking Up and Learning

Looking Up and Learning: Sweet Lessons from the Market

This past weekend at the Horton Market was another rewarding experience sharing my love of cheesecake with the community. It was also a great reminder of the importance of keeping an open mind and staying flexible as an entrepreneur.

One of the biggest lessons I took away is the value of looking up and considering the broader picture. Sometimes it’s easy to make assumptions—like expecting a busy weekend just because of the holiday season—but there are always other factors at play. It’s a good reminder to take the time to evaluate what else might be happening locally and adjust accordingly. This kind of awareness is essential for planning and preparation.

Stock and production planning is particularly important when working with a delicate, luxury product like cheesecake. With shorter shelf lives, balancing production to meet demand is a careful process. While having leftover product isn’t ideal, it isn’t a negative either. It’s an opportunity to be creative and to learn.

Fresh Ideas for the Future

Looking ahead, I’m brainstorming ways to ensure every cheesecake finds its perfect home. One idea is to repurpose leftover slices into portable, ready-to-eat desserts. Imagine a slice of cheesecake served in a clear cup with a topping drizzled over it, complete with a fork—an easy, grab-and-go option for just $5. This could be a great way to offer something different and appealing while managing stock effectively.

I’m also considering how to better align my production and promotions with local trends and events. As the new year approaches, now is the perfect time, at this early stage in my business, to take a good look at 2025 and plan through until next December. A well-thought-out content and production calendar will not only help me stay ahead of local trends but will also ensure I’m maximizing opportunities to meet more customers and provide more cheesecake. This planning will allow me to reduce waste, refine my offerings, and make the most of every market opportunity.

Every week at the market is an opportunity to learn and grow. With each new experience, I’m refining my approach and discovering ways to bring even more cheesecake joy to the community. Thank you for being part of this journey—I can’t wait to see what’s next!

Stay sweet,
Jeff Butler
The Classic Luxury Cheesecake Company