Starting a business during COVID-19: An interview with David McCook, owner of Icy Cakes in Sydenham
What was it like setting up a business during COVID-19?
I’ve always been interested in food and I enjoy cooking, so my passion stemmed from there. I found I was often disappointed by the cakes I’ve ordered for special occasions in the past and thought I could do better myself – so that’s what I did! I became a self-taught baker and opened the shop. It was very unfortunate that in March, a month after opening we went into lockdown. I felt I hadn’t had time to establish the business within the local community so it was a very worrying time for me. Other local shops in Sydenham have closed down so I’m just grateful that the business has survived.
What adaptations have you had to make due to COVID-19?
During the first lockdown I had to find different ways of marketing the business because there wasn’t the same level of foot fall on the high street as there would normally be. Social media, especially instagram has played an important part in promoting the business and word of mouth has helped too, so we are starting to build up a local customer base.
I’ve been able to continue making deliveries during the pandemic and thanks to social media I am now receiving orders for bespoke cakes from all over the country.
I’ve learnt a lot of lessons from the first national lockdown so I feel a bit more prepared for lockdown 2.0 and at least I can continue offering a take away service.
What advice would you give someone who is thinking of starting a business?
Just go for it! There is never a perfect time to start a business because there are always obstacles to overcome along the way. Things certainly haven’t always gone smoothly since the shop opened due to COVID-19, but the challenges I’ve faced have only made me stronger as a person.
Most importantly, do your research. There is a lot to learn and information isn’t always easy to find. Keeping up to date with the latest Government COVID-19 guidance has also been important.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to develop a website and eventually open more shops.