Today we’d like to introduce you to Abigail Carter.
Hi Abigail, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My career in the bakery industry began at 16, when I started working for a local bakery while still in high school. Soon after, I had the opportunity to purchase the business, launching my journey as a young entrepreneur. Coming from a family of business owners, I had a strong foundation of guidance and support, which allowed me to balance the challenges of early college coursework, running a bakery, and community involvement.
Over the past decade, I have grown both as a business owner and community leader. From navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship as a teenager to expanding during the pandemic and renovating a downtown location, I’ve gained experience in resilience, adaptability, and innovation. My business has become a space where people not only enjoy high-quality baked goods but also connect and gather as a community.
Now entering my 10th year in the industry, I am proud to continue building a business that reflects hard work, creativity, and dedication. As a young female entrepreneur, I strive to create opportunities, contribute to local growth, and share my passion for baking with my hometown and beyond.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As a young entrepreneur, I faced skepticism, long hours, and steep learning curves. Balancing school, business, and personal growth often meant sleepless nights, but those struggles built resilience and shaped me into the leader I am today. One particularly tough time was building a business out of the pandemic when the world shut down and I wasn’t quite sure how to move forward. I began baking bread for the local pantry because the grocery store shelves were bare. Little did I know that struggle would be a huge catalyst for my career, allowing me to form meaningful, professional, industry connections.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Boardwalk Baker. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
What I am most proud of is the journey of being a young entrepreneur and building something from nothing. At an age when most were still figuring out their next steps, I was learning how to run a business, make tough decisions, and earn credibility in my community. The process was never easy. There were long nights that almost broke me, moments when exhaustion and doubt crept in, and seasons when the weight of responsibility felt overwhelming. But through it all, I pressed forward with determination, relying on hard work as the foundation of my business.
Over time, that persistence paid off. My cheesecakes, which have become what I am most known for, symbolize more than just a recipe, they represent the hours of trial and error, the discipline of consistency, and the belief that quality builds trust. Building my brand wasn’t about shortcuts; it was about showing up every day, putting in the work, and staying committed to my vision.
I am proud to say that what began as a dream has grown into a thriving business, one that reflects resilience, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. We are proud to serve the Piedmont Triad with our bakery and dessert food truck for private, corporate, and public events.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice to other entrepreneurs is simple: don’t try to do it all on your own. Step out, get connected, and let your local Chamber and organizations help you grow. I joined the chamber for the first time at 17 years old, with my first business. It connected me to other business owners, community leaders, and resources that have helped me grow not just my business, but also my confidence as an entrepreneur.
Networking has built relationships that turned into collaborations, mentorship, and customer referrals. Marketing my business within that community gave me visibility and credibility that would have been difficult to achieve alone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theboardwalkbaker.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/theboardwalkbaker
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/theboardwalkbaker
