Meet Liana Roberts | Businesswoman

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

Hi Liana, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have never seen myself as a business woman. My parents were refugees who came to
America during the Vietnam War. They raised us to achieve stereotypical careers, like
becoming a doctor, lawyer, or pharmacist. I veered off the path a bit but chose a career in
healthcare, becoming an occupational therapist, which I enjoy. I would bring cookies to work as
a nice pick me up to my colleagues. For years, I was told my cookies tasted better than some
local bakeries and I should sell them. This was a thought that resonated with me for a long time.
My husband and I would talk about what we wanted to do if we were millionaires. My answer
was to do some philanthropic work like occupational therapists without borders and work at a
bakery or floral shop. My opportunity to pursue this dream presented itself when I moved to
Florida last summer. I weighed out the pros and cons of staying at home with my kids while
baking vs. working full time as an occupational therapist. Everything aligned where I could open
up my cookie business. I have a very supportive sister who encouraged me to take the leap.
She helped me complete all the business related tasks, start my instagram, posted to facebook,
and I had orders coming in like crazy. Sneaky Bites Cookies was officially in business.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Sneaky Bites Cookies offers delectable cookies made of premium ingredients that contain no trans fats or preservatives. It’s not only about the cookies, but it’s about the experience that the cookies offer. We are on a mission to integrate ourselves in Broward County and the surrounding neighborhoods, catering parties, social gatherings, and corporate events. Our brand offers the midwest hospitality that warmly welcomes everybody at a party. When you place down a wine glass, a cookie can take its place for that comfort during a conversation. Our cookies are wholesome and decadent, providing a sense of community.

Sneaky Bites Cookies has only been open since January, but it has not been easy. I have no background in business and I am the only person in this business. What has helped me is my support. I have a very supportive sister who encouraged me to take the leap to start the business. I discovered resources online, found friends and mentors, and remained motivated with my overall goal in mind. My goal has been to grow this business while having the flexibility to stay at home with my children. One of the most important factors that has helped with my success with the brand was after I took the initiative to find a coach, who was able to help me develop my business blueprint and navigate my goals. After working with my coach, I hit my sales goals, increased my profits, and recently became an official a partner with AJ’s Coffee Break cart. All of these challenges and successes encompass one major lesson I have learned: I am not alone and do not have to do it alone. There are people who are willing to support you, you just have to find your community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This is how we would plan our week according to my family’s favorite places:

Saturday or Sunday:
-Swim at our community pool and/or go to a local market like the Flamingo Flea or Sunnyside Up,
-Restaurant: The Greek Joint

Monday:
-Lion Country Safari
-Restaurant: Ushio Sushi

Tuesday:
-Deerfield Beach or Hollywood Beach
-Restaurant: Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Wednesday:
-Miami Star Island boat tour
-Restaurant: Kaeru sushi

Thursday:
-Butterfly World
-Restaurant: Antonio’s Pizza

Friday:
-Sawgrass Recreational Park alligator boat tour
-Restaurant: Mustard Seed Bistro

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize my sister, Linda, along with my husband and children. They have supported me throughout this entire process to start Sneaky Bites Cookies. Carley Sumner, founder of the Flamingo Flea Market, deserves a shoutout. She helped me with my branding. I also wanted to give a huge shoutout to Jennifer Martinez of AJ’s Coffee Break, a specialty expresso cart. Jennifer took a leap of faith and believed in me enough to take me on as an official cookie partner.

Website: https://www.sneakybitescookies.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sneakybitescookies

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559411292560&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Marguerite of Wild Pearl Co is the photographer who shot my profile headshot. Otherwise, no other credits.