Meet Stephanie Deran | Owner & Macaron Aficionado

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Deran and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I never actually imagined having a baking business. Even though I have always loved to bake, I considered it merely a hobby. As we know, life changed suddenly for many people in 2020. Since my career at that time was meeting with people in person, my hours were drastically reduced and I found myself with time on my hands at home. I’m very thankful because even though at first it was just fun, I ended up creating a successfully small home baking business. Honestly, I owe my success mostly to my family and friends. I remember being so surprised, they actually wanted to pay me? If it were not for their encouragement and support, I would’ve never pursued an income through baking.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Ever since I can remember, I have always been artistic and creative. Unfortunately, I never actually pursued any kind of career in the creative world. I have always known that I possessed certain talents however, I always talked myself out of things that may have been too risky. I remember when I was in high school and I loved acting in drama class. one of my teachers told me that I should pursue a career in acting. I never did because little voice in my head said “that will be way too difficult to succeed”. Even though I truly believe that everything happens for a reason, looking back on my life, I wish that I had been more adventurous with my decisions and not so logical. If I had been, maybe I would have a chain of baking businesses across the country! I’m happy with my small baking business though. Honestly, it makes my day when my customers who have traveled the world tell me that my macarons are the best they’ve ever had. It’s such a huge compliment!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I have always lived in Southern California. Even though I’ve traveled to other places, I absolutely love being near the ocean. There are so many great places to eat especially if you love, seafood like I do. I would definitely spend some time at the beach, preferably in Coronado, take a boat ride, or just enjoy the sunset with a small picnic at La Jolla Cove. On the other hand, it’s a short drive into the mountains to Julian to enjoy Mom’s Apple pie with ice cream or go for a hike near Ramona or Cuyamaca Lake. It’s hard to even summarize how amazing the people and places are in San Diego, California. You definitely have to come visit to experience it for yourself!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My brother was actually the very first one who paid me for an order of Macarons. It’s very special to me because I realize that he would not have done and encouraged me unless he really saw talent and a future worth pursuing. I also am very thankful for the support of my husband, Erik. Even when I decided to take the leap and try making my macaron business my only income a couple of years ago, he didn’t question my choices but was there for me in every way. Finally, I also have to mention how many amazing people I have met since I started my business. Other small business owners, and even people I have met through social media. have shown me so much overwhelming love and support.

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Facebook: Facebook.com/amazingmacarons

Yelp: Amazing Macarons