Exciting Gateshead patisseries business supported to start up
At 18, UkiUki's owner Jackie tasted her first macaron. Still regarded as one of the best things she ever had, an irresistible combination of crunchiness and chewiness, it sparked a passion for baking which has led to her now owning a patisserie business.
Learning baking in Hong Kong, at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in London, and online with chefs from Japan, France and Copenhagen, Jackie has explored the world of baking with enthusiasm and a limitless mindset. Her learning and love for creative exploration in baking has led her to specialise in French- and Asian-style patisseries best, such as macarons, entremets mousse cakes, fruit tarts, Japanese chiffon cakes, mochi bakes and more. She also loves baking a good cupcake, brownie, and cookie or two.
"I believe in my ability to not only provide options for traditional bakes, but also fusion ones too. I try different methods and flavour profiles in the hope to create many bakes with a balanced palette."
Jackie Ma, owner of UkiUki, points to a Start Up Smart business bootcamp as a helpful tool for starting her business. She said, "I went to the Boot Camp as suggested by the Gateshead council. It was eventful. Through the camp, I met many people who want to start their own business and all in different sectors. It was a lovely opportunity to meet people with innovative ideas.
"The speaker of the event also created a great environment for us to learn and think about every little thing before starting our own business. All information and advice was invaluable."
As well as the bootcamps hosted by PNE, which are jointly funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Gateshead Council, Jackie has been provided with guidance and support, access to business services and training opportunities, advice on funding availability, provided start-up tools and received 1-2-1 support from our Business Gateshead team since March. As a result, she was able to develop a solid business plan, start her business with confidence, and successfully move to the next stage of her entrepreneur journey.
Jackie continues to push forward her business as recently she completed a plant-based patisserie course at Le Cordon Bleu London to provide more options for people who are on plant-based diet. She commented, "It is important for people to know that plant-based patisseries could just be as exciting as non-plant-based ones."
UkiUki offers free collection and free delivery to NE1 and NE8 post codes. You can find them on Instagram, @ukiuki_patisserie, or visit their website at https://www.ukiukipatisserie.co.uk/
If you have an idea for a business or have just started one, Start Up Smart events can give you the right start through a 2-day intensive programme. Upcoming bootcamps can be found here.
This business was supported by the Enterprise Support in the North East 2 Project funded by European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and delivery partners including Gateshead Council.