A year ago, this business was a one-woman show, but I’m grateful to say that’s no longer the case. Now there’s also Rhonda, the goddess of customer relations, whom most of you already know through her endlessly helpful emails, phone calls, and texts. There’s Leticia, the friendly face you’ll usually see next to mine at markets and special events, if she’s not busy chasing down customers with business cards and samples. There’s Marisol, who can make the most divine French pastries but also lends her immense skills to baking our cookies, brownies, and blondies. There’s Ezlius, a powerhouse in the kitchen who has supercharged our productivity while also keeping our pots so, so shiny. And the other folks who have pitched in along the way: Maxine, Zean, and Manu. Thank you all so much for being excited about ice cream cakes and willing to lend your time, bodies, and talents to this endeavor.

Thank you also to everyone who has taken a chance on our baby business by including us in your celebrations. Thank you to my friends who have loyally ordered ice cream from the start and helped me get the word out. Thank you to our repeat customers who support us not only financially but also spiritually by showing your continued enthusiasm for what we do. Thank you to my fellow business owners who’ve shared advice, opinions, referrals, commiseration, and delicious food. And the biggest thank you to my family, who have put up with all kinds of craziness, and whom I hope I’ve begun to repay with samples, leftovers, taste tests, and free birthday cakes.

Here’s to next year!

Rachel