In this exclusive CanadianSME Small Business Magazine interview, Sophie Rennie, Owner and Founder of Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop, shares the inspiring journey that began as a teen entrepreneur and evolved into a beloved local brand in Barrie, Ontario. Through creativity, community engagement, and a mission to spread joy, Sophie has transformed her passion for baking into a thriving business—proving that determination and kindness can make life a little sweeter, one treat at a time.
Sophie Rennie is the owner and founder of Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop, a small business she launched in 2020 at just 16 years old. What began as baking from her family’s kitchen during the pandemic has since grown into a beloved local bake shop known for its creative desserts, custom treats, and community spirit. Based in Barrie, Ontario, Sophie has expanded her dream into both a storefront and a dessert trailer, making her sweets even more accessible to her community. At only 21, she continues to grow her brand while staying true to her mission of spreading joy through baking and making life a little sweeter, one treat at a time.
You started Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop at just 16 years old. What inspired you to take that leap into entrepreneurship at such a young age, and what kept you motivated through the early challenges?
I launched Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop in July 2020, when I was just 16 years old. It started in my family’s kitchen during online school, right in the middle of the pandemic. Baking had always been something I loved, and during such a difficult time, I wanted to share a little joy and comfort with my community. What began as a way to brighten people’s days quickly grew into something bigger than I ever imagined. In those early days, it wasn’t always easy. Balancing school and a business came with challenges, but what kept me motivated was the incredible support from my community. Many of the people who placed those very first orders still order from me five years later. They’ve trusted me, challenged me, and helped me grow—and I’m so thankful for that. Their encouragement, along with my love for what I do, is what continues to fuel me every single day.
This past year has been full of milestones for you—launching your dessert trailer and opening your first storefront. Can you share what these achievements mean to you personally and how they represent growth for your business?
This past year has been such a special one, with both the dessert trailer and my first storefront becoming a reality. When these opportunities came up, I knew I couldn’t turn them down. They felt like the right next steps, but I also know I wouldn’t be here without the support of my community. From day one, people have stood behind me, encouraged me, and believed in Sweet & Sassie.
Looking back to when I started this business at 16, I never imagined it would grow into what it is today, five years later. To see my dream expand from my family’s kitchen to a trailer and now a storefront is something I’m really proud of. These milestones aren’t just about growth in my business—they show what’s possible when an amazing community stands behind you. I’m so thankful to every single person who has supported me on this journey.
Giving back has become a cornerstone of Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop, from community fundraisers to supporting families in need. How do you see the role of small businesses in making a positive social impact?
Giving back has always been such an important part of Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop. If it weren’t for this community, I wouldn’t have a business, so supporting others is something I truly value. Whether it’s a small donation, running a fundraiser, or helping a family in need, I’m always more than happy to give back. For me, it’s about using my business as a way to spread kindness, support others, and give back to the place that has supported me from the very beginning. I think small businesses should always show up for their communities, because they’re the reason we get to do what we love. Even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference to someone, and I’m grateful that my business gives me the chance to do that.
Running a business while being so young comes with unique challenges and opportunities. What key lessons have you learned about leadership, resilience, and community support that you think other young entrepreneurs can benefit from?
Running a business at a young age has definitely come with challenges, but also so many opportunities to learn and grow. It’s not always easy—things don’t always go the way you plan, but you can’t give up. You have to push through, keep striving to be better, and be open to learning from others along the way. My community has been everything to me.
I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without their support and encouragement, and they’re a big part of what keeps me moving forward. For young entrepreneurs, I think the key is to lean into your passion, work hard, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help. You don’t have to do it all alone—and sometimes it’s the people around you who help you grow the most.
Looking ahead, what is your biggest hope for the future of Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop, and what final message would you like to share with fellow small business owners who are striving to grow and give back in their own way?
Looking ahead, my biggest hope for Sweet & Sassie Bake Shop is to continue growing, reaching more people in my community, and spreading happiness through my treats. Giving back will always be at the heart of my business, and I want to keep finding ways to make a difference while doing what I love. cTo fellow small business owners who are striving to grow and give back, I’d say this: never forget that your community is everything. They’re the ones who believe in you, support you, and help you keep going. Lean on them, give back whenever you can, and you’ll be amazed at how far you can go together.
