Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Pedraza.
Samantha, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been baking since I was little. Some of my first memories are baking cookies with my mom. After I had my own kids, I continued the tradition. I would bake for my family and friends for every occasion.
One day in 2018 my neighbor suggested I start selling instead of just giving things away, and Pedraza’s Pastries was born. I’m so greatful that I was able to create a Texas cottage law business for myself while being a stay at home mom. Our legislators have worked hard to create laws that allow bakers such as myself to have thriving businesses without having to invest in a brick and mortar storefront.
Once we moved back to Kenedy from Corpus my business took off! I started doing local markets and slowly and steadily built a name for myself. I even started a market in Kenedy in 2022 as a venue to sell my goods at. We’re still going strong 3 years later. You can find me at Kenedy Market Day the first Saturday of the month at Joe Gulley Park from 9 am to 3 pm. I also frequent Falls City Market Day and The Market in Floresville.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
“Anything worth having is worth fighting for.”
The last 6 years have definitely been a learning experience. I started from scratch. With no formal education about baking or managing a business I have definitely had my fair share of growing pains. In the beginning I struggled getting traction and attracting customers. I didn’t know how to market on social media. It took me a while to learn the value of my time and stop undercharging for my products just to make sales. I also had to come to terms with the fact that not all cottage bakers follow the rules, but I take pride in the fact that I do.
We’ve been impressed with Pedraza’s Pastries, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m a small town girl with a small cottage law bakery. I specialize in fruit filled kolaches, cinnamon rolls, braided bread, and lots of homestyle cookie flavors as well. Fan favorites include Chocolate and Lemon Crinkles, Ultimate Chocolate Chip, Cowboy Cookies, Snickerdoodles, and Peanut Butter Cookies. I pride myself on following the law while still making delicious baked goods. Because I don’t have a storefront, I travel to local markets but also take custom orders too!
Any big plans?
I may sound crazy, but I love exactly what I do and currently have no plans to expand. I’m really starting to find my voice and my brand and will be focusing on that for 2025. If the legislation passes this year, I would like to have the option to wholesale to local businesses. That would open doors and really allow my business to flourish.
Pricing:
- Cinnamon rolls-$24/ dozen
- Chocolate Crinkles- $10/ dozen
- Cowboy Cookies- $20/ dozen
- Braided Garlic and Italian bread- $6 loaf
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pedrazaspastries
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pedrazaspastries
