Meet Cara Hughes | Co-Owner, Forgotten Cookies Co.

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

Hi Cara, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Turning a Family Passion into a Sweet Success: The Journey of Our Cottage Meringue Cookie Business Introduction: Embarking on the path of entrepreneurship is an exhilarating adventure, filled with dreams, determination, and a passion to share something special with the world. For our family, starting our own business was a natural progression driven by years of shared conversations, a unanimous decision, and the perfect combination of circumstances. This article aims to shed light on our thought process behind launching our cottage meringue cookie business, highlighting our shared aspirations, collaborative efforts, and the creative journey that led us to where we are today.

1. A Shared Dream: Selling cookies had been a recurring topic of conversation in our family for years. We often found ourselves immersed in lively discussions about the perfect flavors, textures, and unique twists that could make our cookies stand out. It was during these moments of excitement and creative brainstorming that the seeds of our business were sown.
2. Recognizing the Opportunity: As a close-knit family, we believed that starting a business together would not only allow us to turn our passion into a profession but also strengthen the bonds that held us together. After careful consideration and evaluation of our skills, resources, and market demand, we realized that our meringue cookies had the potential to captivate the taste buds of dessert enthusiasts. This realization further fueled our determination to embark on this entrepreneurial journey.
3. Perfect Timing: Timing played a crucial role in the genesis of our business. Our oldest son had recently graduated from college, equipped with the knowledge and skills acquired through his studies. Meanwhile, our middle child found himself with some spare time on his hands. It was during this period that he diligently worked on refining the recipe, aiming to streamline the baking process to produce a larger quantity of cookies within a shorter timeframe.
4. Commitment to Quality: As a family, we were committed to maintaining the quality that had made our cookies a hit with family and friends. Through countless iterations, taste tests, and feedback sessions, we managed to strike the perfect balance between time efficiency and the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture that our customers adore. This unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional product ensured that our customers’ satisfaction remained at the forefront of our endeavors.

Conclusion: Starting our cottage meringue cookie business has been an incredibly rewarding experience, fueled by our long-standing dream, shared determination, and the creative contributions of each family member. By seizing the opportunity, harnessing our individual strengths, and revolutionizing our recipe, we have transformed our passion into a thriving enterprise. Our entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, dedication, and the joy of turning a family tradition into a business that brings smiles to the faces of our valued customers.

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.
At Forgotten Cookie Co, our work is driven by a deep passion for creating meringue cookies that not only delight the senses but also carry a story of resilience, and the power of family. What sets us apart from others is not only the exceptional taste and quality of our cookies but also the journey that brought us to where we are today. Our proudest and most exciting achievement is the ability to combine our family’s love and support with our entrepreneurial spirit, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Our brand is built upon the foundation of our unique story, one that has shaped us both personally and professionally.

The path to where we stand today professionally has not been without its share of difficulties. We have faced and overcome significant challenges, both within and beyond the realm of our business. Our middle child, Brady, was born with a rare blood disease called histiocytosis, and at just 15 weeks old, he began chemotherapy treatments. Thirteen years later, our oldest son, Connor, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. These experiences have tested our resilience as a family and taught us the importance of working together to overcome adversity.

The lessons we have learned along the way are invaluable. We have discovered that a strong support system and open communication are vital in facing challenges head-on. Our family’s ability to adapt, problem-solve, and support one another has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and achieving our goals. We have learned the true meaning of perseverance and the profound impact that unity can have on both personal and professional endeavors.

What we want the world to know about our brand and us is that behind every cookie we bake lies a story of courage, love, and determination. Our journey as a family has shaped our business and instilled in us a sense of purpose. Through our cookies, we aim to spread joy and remind everyone that even in the face of adversity, sweetness can prevail.

In conclusion, Forgotten Cookie Co is more than just a meringue cookie business. It is a testament to the power of family, and the unwavering dedication to pursuing one’s dreams. Our brand represents the amalgamation of our unique story, the lessons we have learned, and the unyielding commitment to delivering exceptional products and heartfelt experiences.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the area and I wanted to show them the best time ever during their week-long trip, here’s an exciting itinerary I would suggest: Day 1:
• I would start by pampering ourselves with a spa treatment at Camelback Inn, enjoying relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the beautiful desert surroundings.
• On our way home we would indulge in a sweet treat at Gelato Spot, where we can sample a wide array of delicious gelato flavors and experience the delightful ambiance.
Day 2:
• In addition to relaxation I would through in a little culture with a visit to the Musical Instrument Museum, where we can explore the world’s largest collection of musical instruments and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Day 3:
• Take a scenic drive to Sedona, a captivating town known for its breathtaking red rock formations. We would spend the day hiking through the stunning landscapes and, for an added adventure, embark on a pink jeep tour to explore the rugged terrain.
Day 4:
• No trip to Arizona would be complete without a visit to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. We would spend the day marveling at the majestic beauty of the canyon, taking in the breathtaking views and exploring the various lookout points.
• On our way back to Phoenix, we would make a stop at Jerome, a historic mining town with a unique character. We would grab lunch at the Haunted Hamburger, known for its delicious food and intriguing ghost stories.
Day 5:
• Would be a good day to catch our breadth and hang out at the pool. Take a late afternoon nap and grab a great meal and drinks at PV Pie and Wine in Paradise Valley.
Day 6:
• Head south to Tombstone, a town renowned for its Wild West history and famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral. We would immerse ourselves in the Old West atmosphere, visiting historical sites and enjoying live reenactments.
Day 7:
• As the trip nears its end, we would take a leisurely drive back to Phoenix, savoring the picturesque desert scenery along the way. We could spend the final day exploring the city, checking out local shops, dining at unique restaurants, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

Throughout the week, we would have the opportunity to experience a diverse range of attractions, from cultural and musical exploration to natural wonders and historical landmarks. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences, showcasing the best that Arizona has to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to: John Hughes, Connor Hughes, Kassidy Holland, Brady Hughes and Isabel Hughes

Website: forgottencookies.shop

Instagram: @Forgottencookies.shop

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forgottencookies.shop

Other: TikTok: @forgottencookies.shop

Image Credits
Kassidy Holland all product and farmer market photos