Baker, owner of Sara Jo’s Clever Cookies N’ More, is a St. Edmond High School graduate and Fort Dodge native. She started her business back in 2013 while continuing to maintain a full-time position at the Community Early Childhood Center.

As the kitchen manager at the CECC, Baker was given the chance to find her calling.

“I would create different sugar cookies for snacks and post them on my Facebook page,” she said. “My family and friends encouraged me to sell my cookies from there.”

Baker does a little bit of everything when it comes to cookies, including decorating. She also makes and produces cupcakes, cupcake cakes and smash cakes, providing something for everyone who likes to indulge in sweets.

-Submitted photo
These are just some of the items made by Sara Baker, owner and baker at Sara Jo’s Clever Cookies N’ More. In addition to cookies, Baker produces cupcakes, cupcake cakes and smash cakes

“All my family and friends have really helped influence me and push me,” Baker said. “Along with my bosses, co-workers and of course, all my great customers.”

While there have been many enjoyable moments balancing multiple roles, Baker has had to overcome obstacles placed in front of her, as well.

“Having a full-time job besides my baking can definitely be an obstacle to overcome,” she said. “Sometimes, it gets overwhelming working 40-plus hours with two kids and the baking orders.

“During COVID, orders went way down and that was tough to get through. I also had to take a break from it during my last pregnancy, but now I am back up and running, and orders are picking up tremendously.”

Baker has a Facebook page that features many of her past goodies and provides for a way to contact her at Sara Jo’s Clever Cookies N’ More.