We had the good fortune of connecting with Julie Robinett and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Julie, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
As a bakery owner, I had to ask myself, “What do I want when I eat a sweet treat?” I found that there were two aspects of dessert that were important to me. First, the taste. If I’m going to splurge on a dessert, it better be drool-worthy. Secondly, the experience of where, when, and who I’m with while indulging. Due to these two factors, I decided that my baked goods need to be customized to my customer’s desires. All of my menu offerings can be customized based on the taste preferences and design appearances that my customers request. In doing so, there is a personalized touch in every customer interaction. I strongly believe that a large part of my business’s success can be attributed to this individualized made-to-order process.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I began my post-college career as an Elementary Art Teacher in 2012. I love working with students and seeing them grow into productive citizens. As time went on, my interests slowly evolved and I received my Master’s degree in Reading Education. When I left the art field in favor of teaching Reading, I found myself in need of a creative outlet. I started to spend my free time baking and decorating all sorts of cookies, cakes, and cupcakes. I enjoyed the hands-on creative process it provided. Before I knew it, I was selling my edible art to customers! As my business grew, I struggled to manage my full-time teaching work and full-time bakery work. As of last year, I was blessed with the ability to teach part-time and run my business full-time. I feel like I have the best of both worlds!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I always say, “I live where I vacation”. There are so many beautiful areas to visit locally, but my favorite neighborhood to spend time in is Lauderdale by the Sea. I love getting a hotel room at Plunge Beach Resort because it is within walking distance to all the restaurants and night life. My ideal day would start with a walk on the beach followed with a relaxing breakfast at the resort. Then, I’d hop on a bike and ride to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and enjoy a cold beverage and snack in their outdoor cafe, Beachside Bar & Eatery. Once I recovered from the ride there, I’d turn around and head back to the resort for a quick dip in the pool before showering up for evening activities. Once I head out, I’d walk the one mile path to hit happy hour at 101 Ocean and then grab a bite to eat at Billy Jack’s Shack. With a full belly and sun-kissed skin, I’d walk back to the resort and prepare to do it again the next day!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband and friends encouraged me to take my business to the next level during the pandemic in 2021. I was baking every day for emotional comfort and donating my creations to neighbors and friends. It was suggested that I stop giving away my baked goods and start selling them. Of course I rolled my eyes and laughed at the idea, but eventually I succumbed to the idea of turning my hobby into a “job” and created a Facebook account just to see what would happen. Within a few days, I started receiving orders. Soon, I made an Instagram account and my order intake tripled. Next thing I knew, I was baking every day and receiving money for the fun I was having!
Website: bergersbunsbakery.com
Instagram: bergers_buns_bakery
Facebook: BergersBunsBakery