Turning a Life’s Passion Into a Dream Business With Amie Smith

Amie Smith is the Founder and Owner of AMIE Bakery, a Cape Cod-based bakery offering baked goods and a full breakfast, lunch, and bar menu. Her love for baking began as a child, making cookies with her father — also a baker. Amie enrolled at the Culinary Institute of Education in New York after working for over two decades as a corporate marketing writer. Among multiple awards and accolades, Pastry Arts Magazine, Cape Cod Home, NBC10, and the Growth Lab Podcast, among others, have recognized Amie and her bakery.

In this episode…

Eateries are popular attractions in tourist locations. However, in regions where tourism is seasonal, this can hurt a small business' bottom line. What can businesses do to stay afloat?

Entrepreneur Amie Smith recommends business owners always plan for slow months by reserving funds. Creating business opportunities to serve customers and the community, such as offering cooking classes, is also beneficial. Amie advocates providing quality food, such as cooking and baking from scratch, and having staple items and food specials on the menu to ensure customers return. She also proposes themed events like tapas nights and wine and bourbon tastings to create community. Additionally, Amie stresses the importance of continuous education for chefs. Take in-class and online cooking classes, research, and read to stay on top of trends.

In this episode of the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast with Odette D’Aniello, Amie Smith, Founder and Owner of AMIE Bakery, discusses successfully operating a small business. Amie shares her strategies for maintaining business in a seasonal tourist location, retaining customers, and the importance of continuous education.