In conversation with Mississauga entrepreneur Kate Clipperton

1. What exactly does your business do?
Kate’s Town Talk Bakery is a retail bakery and café. We bake everything on-site, from scratch. We’re famous for our butter tarts but also offer loads of cookies, squares, scones, sandwiches and soups.

2. What inspired you to start your business?
I was operating a home based catering company, after being downsized from my previous “office” job. I got word that the previous owners of Town Talk Bakery & Fine Pastries were looking to retire and sell their bakery, and without too much thought, I grabbed the opportunity and bought the business.

3. How has your business adapted to the new world?
The core of our business hasn’t changed, we offer consistent, quality products at a reasonable price and great customer service. What has changed, with the pandemic, is the focus on the digital side of the business. We revamped our website this year, which now includes an online ordering option and we have a mobile app!

4. What are you most proud of from a business perspective?
Running a successful business for almost 11 years (our anniversary is in February)! I had no idea how it would all turn out, and am proud that I have been able to establish a business that continues to survive, especially through 2020.

5. What's been the largest obstacle to overcome and how did you do it?
When I started the business, I really didn’t know what I was doing and that was a bit terrifying. I knew I didn’t know everything but I also knew that I had a strong support system of people that wanted to see me succeed. And when you have the support, there’s no obstacle that you can’t overcome, including the 2020 pandemic.

6. What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?
Make sure that whatever you do, it is something that you love! And surround yourself with good people. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of family and friends. And I am very fortunate to have excellent staff working with me

7. What message do you have for the community as we continue to navigate the global pandemic?
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Being a small business owner is tough at the best of times but trying to navigate through the pandemic is another level of tough. Without the support of our customers and community, we wouldn’t be here.

katestowntalk.ca