Lana McKee is a hard working mama who has a bit of a sweet tooth. We’re all for that around here and loved learning about her business, Sweet Tooth Confections. Lana makes custom cookies in any design and shape her clients can dream up.
When she’s not baking, she’s hanging with her family, taking care of her son Cash (2) and their dogs Molly and Bentley. Mamas know the drill when our little ones get obsessed with an interest and that’s no different for Lana’s family. After watching the SpaceX launch in May, Cash has been obsessed with rockets and all things space. Lana and her husband are now getting a crash course in spacecraft courtesy of little Cash.
Tell us about Sweet Tooth Confections:
Sweet Tooth Confections is a completely custom, sugar cookie business. I can put just about anything on a cookie and the best part is that they taste as amazing as they look.
What was your inspiration to start a cookie company?
Truthfully, I wanted to start my own company to get out of my corporate 9-5 job after I had my son. One of my first thoughts after he was born was, “There’s no way I can leave him and go back to work.” I’ve always been a pretty good home-baker and I used to be obsessed with those cookie bouquets that were popular in the early 2000s. I put the two together and Sweet Tooth Confections was born. It was the perfect creative outlet that allowed me to work for myself, care for my son, and help provide for my family.
How can people purchase from you?
Because of the custom nature of my business, I only take orders in Orlando. I take orders through Facebook, Instagram, email, and even text message. I can be found on Facebook and Instagram @SweetToothConfectionsOrlando
How long have you been in business?
Since December 2018 – the height of cookie season! There’s nothing quite like starting a new business with a newborn and in one of the busiest seasons of the year.
How have you pivoted during the pandemic?
Luckily, I haven’t had to change too much during the pandemic. When it first started, orders dropped like flies because every event was cancelled or postponed. Once people started getting together again, I was busier than ever because people were opting for individually-wrapped, single-serving treats instead of cakes, pies, brownies, etc.
Custom cookies make a great gift for nearly any occasion – birthdays, engagement parties, bachelor/ette parties, housewarming gifts, any Hallmark holiday, kids’ field trips, teacher or administration gifts, bridal and baby showers, wedding favors, etc. I have done cookies for just about every occasion!
What’s next for Sweet Tooth Confections?
In the short term, I’m really looking forward to the holiday season. I think we all need a little holiday cheer to brighten up this year! My five year plan includes expanding into different treat options (marshmallows, pretzels, cake), potentially opening a brick-and-mortar storefront, and decorating classes.
How does your family help with your business?
My husband helps out by being an equal caregiver to our son. We both run our own companies, with absolutely no childcare during the pandemic, and split our time caring for him almost seamlessly. It’s not easy but we get it done. My son’s favorite part of the business are the “mess up” cookies and the leftover bags of icing. He will eat icing straight out of the bag if I let him.
