Early Influences and Career Shift

Charlotte Cooper’s passion for baking was ignited in her childhood, where she learned to make classic treats like rock cakes and Victoria sponge cake from her mother, Ann. “I’ve loved baking for as long as I can remember,” she shares, reflecting on the joy that now accompanies her professional endeavors.

After spending several years in a stable insurance career, Charlotte recognized that her creative aspirations clashed with the structured nature of her job. “The money was good, but I was unhappy and hated going to work,” she reflects, emphasizing the lack of fulfillment in her previous role. In 2017, after a decade in the corporate world, she decided it was time for a change.

Igniting the Baking Side Hustle

A turning point came when her father, Les, requested her to make birthday cupcakes for his coworkers. Their enthusiastic reception inspired her to bake more, leading to a burgeoning side business built on positive feedback from friends and family. “I started baking more in my spare time and selling to friends and family. Their positive feedback was the push I needed to quit the office job,” Charlotte explains.

Despite encouragement from her family, some friends were doubtful about her move into baking full-time, with one even suggesting she’d be back to a “proper job” within six months.

Establishing a Coffee Shop

Charlotte gained invaluable experience running a coffee shop at a museum, although the facilities didn’t allow her to create the full range of bakes she envisioned. Working primarily at her parents’ home kitchen, she took the leap to establish her own business, Wonderberrys, on March 1, 2020.

However, her new venture faced significant challenges when the COVID-19 pandemic hit just weeks later, forcing the closure of hospitality establishments nationwide.

Navigating Challenges During COVID-19

In response to the pandemic restrictions, Charlotte pivoted to virtual baking sessions on Instagram. “I’d send out a list of ingredients on Monday, and at 10am on Thursday, a lovely community of home bakers would join me to bake on an Instagram Live,” she recalls.

As lockdowns continued, she launched a successful Cake-Away service, offering a wide array of baked goods for weekend pickup. “Mum was a huge help throughout and enjoyed it so much that at the end of 2021, she left her job at a university to become my business partner,” Charlotte mentions, highlighting the supportive family dynamics that have underpinned her business.

Building Community Connections

With restrictions easing, Charlotte opened her own Wonderberrys Coffee Shop in January 2022. By this time, she had cultivated a loyal following through her online interactions. “It was wonderful when the Covid restrictions eased,” she says, appreciating the chance to meet her Bake-Along community in person.

Now operating from her third location in Woolston, Southampton, Wonderberrys offers about 30 different baked goods, with customer favorites including Snickers brownies and cinnamon buns. “I’m so excited to launch our online shop, offering UK-wide delivery on some of our best bakes,” she adds.

Finding Happiness in Baking

Charlotte reflects on her transition from insurance to baking, stating, “When I look back at Insurance Charlotte vs Baker Charlotte, it’s like we’re two completely different people.” She emphasizes her newfound happiness and satisfaction derived from running her own business, where she can embrace creativity and spontaneity daily. “It just doesn’t feel like work,” she concludes.