In the heart of Belmont, Mississippi, Magnolia Girls Cooking has quickly become a household name, delighting locals with homemade pastries, cakes, and plate lunches. But the story behind this business is just as heartwarming as the food they serve thanks to owners Jennifer Higginbottom and Caylie Ginn.
A Business Born from Passion and Purpose
Magnolia Girls Cooking was founded by two women with a love for baking and cooking. What started as a fundraiser for co-founder Caylie’s IVF journey in 2023 quickly blossomed into a full-time business. “We started cooking for the public, and it just blew up overnight! We haven’t looked back,” the owners shared.
Their menu includes an array of delicious homemade treats, from bagels and muffins to cakes and catered meals for special events. They also operate Magnolia Girls at 107 Social, an event space that can host up to 75 people for business meetings, birthday parties, and more. For those looking to celebrate stress-free, they even offer full-service birthday planning—decorations, food, and cleanup included!
Overcoming Challenges and Prioritizing Quality
Like many small business owners, the Magnolia Girls say their biggest challenge is saying “no.” Their commitment to customer satisfaction drives them to take on as much as they can. “If we ever have to say no, it’s truly not because we don’t want to do it,” they explained.
What sets them apart in the food industry? “Quality. You are going to get tasty, well-seasoned food from us!” Their dedication to fresh, homemade flavors has paid off—Belmont Coffee and The Raven’s Nest in Booneville now carry their bagels, with orders ranging from 40 to 80 bagels per week.
Building Community Through Food
Magnolia Girls Cooking isn’t just about business; it’s about community. While they are eager to give back more in the future, they already support local businesses through collaborations, like their partnerships with local coffee shops. Word-of-mouth referrals and Facebook groups have also played a crucial role in their rapid growth.
“The best part of running this business? Hands down, the great customers we get to meet! A lot of them we don’t even know personally—it’s all been word-of-mouth,” they said.
Looking to the Future
With their business thriving, Magnolia Girls Cooking is expanding their offerings. One of their latest ideas is a Birthday Box or Just Because Box, featuring a small meal and a sweet treat, such as cupcakes or cheesecake. They also hope to make 107 Social a go-to gathering space for the community.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, their advice is simple but powerful: “Pray, pray, pray! Take the leap—it’s all worth it.”
Want to support Magnolia Girls Cooking? Like and share their Facebook page, visit 107 Social for upcoming events, or treat yourself to their delicious homemade creations!