We had the good fortune of connecting with Meagan Massad and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Meagan, why did you pursue a creative career?
I come from a very artistic and creative family. My dad is my biggest role model and I’ve always looked up to him since I was a little girl. He’s been my number one fan and best friend. I could not have been luckier. He’s allowed my brothers and I to pursue our own dreams in life and with our careers. Culinary has always been a passion of mine. After trying university at TCU in Fort Worth, TX I was lucky enough to travel. I worked at a ski resort in Mammoth Mountain, California and was a flight attendant for Continental Express Jet. I got to experience so much of North American cuisine,that’s when I decided to enroll in culinary school and pursue my dreams in culinary arts . I worked every position from dishwasher, Garde Manger, sauté, to manager. Then was a food rep for a high-end cheese and cured meat distributor before I became a stay at home mom with 2 kids.

I started creating decorated sugar cookies for my kids friends and teachers as gifts. They were such a hit I decided to create an Instagram and sell them locally. Soon my hobby turns into a business. I absolutely love what I get to do. It’s so fun and exciting to create each set, and I love seeing my customers face when they pick up their orders. I’m very passionate about my work and feel so honored to be a part of other peoples celebrations in life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Sometimes working from home can be distracting but I’ve managed to create a balance between my work and home life. It can also be challenging at times because I am a single mom. I want to give my kids my full attention however during the holidays it’s a struggle because of how busy I am. I try my best to find a balance to take care of myself first so that I can be a better mom and business owner.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love when people come to visit! Most of my family and friends are still in Texas. First of all my favorite thing to do is show off my vintage VW bus. You can check it out on Instagram @the_sweetest_ride. It’s such a fun weekend driver to check out local dives.

My trip itinerary to show off my area consists of restaurants and breweries. My favorite restaurant has always been Coconuts ever since I moved here in 2009 so of course we would go there, or my second favorite spot Even Keel. A trip to Wynwood and Design District is a must!! I love seeing the graffiti and street art. They also have the best restaurants and breweries by far. The decor of each place is spectacular and a must see!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family and friends have always been my biggest supporters. Also, I have to give recognition to my kids. I’m lucky enough to have a job that I can work from home and create my own hours. I want them to be proud of me and what I have done and show them that they can pursue their own dreams and creativity in life.

Another shout out is to all of my customers that have become friends. My success has relied on word-of-mouth. I have such great customers and party planners that have spread the love of my work to other people. I owe them so much in my success.

Website: Sugaredandicedfl.com

Instagram: Sugared_and_iced_fl

Linkedin: Meagan Massad

Facebook: Sugared_and_iced_fl

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.