“When it comes to baking and decorating, I am completely self-taught,” Kistler said. “I’ve never actually taken any formal classes on any of this.”
“It’s a lot of trial and error. The world of cake decorating is always growing, and I’m always excited to learn a new decorating technique!”
She began to rent the location at 115 E. National Road in March 2017, when she was only 20 years old.
Kistler’s parents, Dave and Renee, were big supporters in the process, she said. They helped direct her when they could but wanted her to figure out how to do it on her own.
“So I did,” Kistler said.
It took Kistler nearly a year to open shop. She had to do a complete remodel because her building location used to be a bank. She had to get city permits, redo the plumbing, electric and HVAC.
Kistler opened her doors on Feb. 10, 2018. She offers a full display of cupcakes, cookies, cake pops and more for the daily walk-in customers. But for custom orders, she will do anything.
“It’s a lot of fun because I have some customers come to me with unusual requests,” Kistler said.
She claims the feedback she has received from the community and her customers has been amazing. She already has regulars who come in weekly and is grateful for the customers support.
“I wouldn’t be able to do what I am doing now without them,” Kistler said. “Being in the wedding industry, I have been able to connect with many other local wedding vendors who have helped guided me along the way,” Kistler said.
After a year in business, Kistler added another feature to her shop. The owner of the Scarlett Raven Café, Natalie Lowry, contacted Kistler to partner together.
The pair added a selection of coffees and teas and both said they work very well together. They have big plans for the future.
Kistler is a graduate of Vandalia-Butler High school in 2015 and has one older brother, Justin. She has a German Shepherd, Jade, and a yellow lab, Leo. Zach, her boyfriend, and her have been together since their junior year in high school, nearly six years.
Flourish Cake Co. is open Sunday through Thursday by appointment only, Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Future customers can contact the cake shop at flourishcakeco@gmail.com or 937-301-4035. Visit their website for sample pictures of the items the shop sells.
“I’ve definitely come a long way since day one of opening my business,” Kistler said. “I’ve learned a lot, and hope I continue to grow.”
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