Something important to us at Ninu nina is to profile people who have started their own unique business ventures in the creative field. That’s why we were excited to hear about Thea Zagata who was working in pr for 8 years before she decided to start her own business venture, the Gumdrop Cookie Shop, an extremely creative concept that is stylish and cool. So next time you are looking for a funky gift idea check out her site and make personalized cookies that will surely impress.
How and why you started Gumdrop Cookie Shop?
I have always had an interest in doing my own thing but I was waiting until I had enough experience and the right idea before I started. I knew I wanted to do something in the food industry, but didn’t want to be a chef or caterer because that’s something I love yet I didn’t want cooking to become work. I figured a baking business was a way to combine my love of food and my business experience. I wrote a business plan and it helped me realize that I needed the cookies to be something that were completely different from anything that was available. It’s all about design/creativity right now so I merged this idea with food and Gumdrop Cookies was born! I also was planning my own wedding and realized there are a lot of corny wedding favors out there. Gumdrop Cookie Shop offers decorated cookies that are an edible option (there is way too much clutter in this world!!) that is stylish and can be customized.
Challenges of starting the company?
One of the toughest challenges is that there is no mentor to turn to when an issue arises. In most corporate settings, there is a boss or colleagues to turn to for help. When you have your own business you have to figure things out on your own. Finding good partners and vendors is really important. Two other challenges that are not a surprise – finding TIME & money.
One of the toughest challenges is that there is no mentor to turn to when an issue arises. In most corporate settings, there is a boss or colleagues to turn to for help. When you have your own business you have to figure things out on your own. Finding good partners and vendors is really important. Two other challenges that are not a surprise – finding TIME & money.
Most interesting designs you have done for cookies so far?
I had one woman put some creative photos of herself on a cookie for her husband. I’ll leave it at that.
I had one woman put some creative photos of herself on a cookie for her husband. I’ll leave it at that.
Favorite restaurants in New York?
My FAVORITE question!
Sullivan Street Bakery on 47th street. (can’t get enough).
Tamarind (feeds my Indian food fetish).
Pearl Oyster Bar for Lobster Rolls (I have tried all of them in the city for the record.). Dressler (in Williamsburg).
Artisinal (for fondue)
Favorite Dessert places?
Top Pot Doughnut in Seattle. http://www.toppotdoughnuts.com/flash/I can’t stop dreaming of these since I had them last. Freddo in Argentina (best ice cream ever!) http://www.freddo.com.ar/
Best Date spot?
Jury Duty. I met my husband there.
Jury Duty. I met my husband there.
A little bit about the pr industry in NYC?
I have worked in PR for ten years now and I’m actually still working in the PR world a bit. I can’t seem to let go yet. I love the camaraderie and fast-paced style of the industry. PR trains you to work hard – you can’t be lazy in this business. It’s ideal training for marketing and publicizing your business, but it teaches you to deal with day to day issues that arise. There always seems to be at least one crisis a day in the PR world. The fast-paced lifestyle can catch up with you eventually.
