Joyce Watts

So nice to meet you! First off, what’s your name? Tell our readers a bit about yourself—where you’re from originally and where you live now.

My name is Joyce Watts, and I’m the owner of Boujee Baker KC. I was born and raised in Kansas City, and this is where I’m building my business today. I’m a wife, mother, grandmother, baker and author who loves bringing people together through good food and adding a little Boujee personality to the experience.

Tell us one thing you love about where you live now.

I love the way Kansas City supports local businesses. When someone tries our food, comes back and brings a friend, that means so much to me. Those relationships are a big part of what makes this feel like home.

Tell us a little more about what your company does and how it started. How does it help your customers?

Boujee Baker KC offers homemade baked goods, breakfast, lunch and catering. I gained experience baking alongside my sisters at Big Momma’s Bakery-Cafe. I started Boujee Baker as a home-based business in 2020 and opened our East 12th Street storefront in May 2025.

We serve everything from cinnamon rolls, cheesecakes and sweet potato bars to sandwiches and homemade soups. We also bring our mobile cinnamon roll and cheesecake bars to events. Whether someone needs lunch, holiday desserts or food for a gathering, we help take some of the work off their plate and make the occasion special.

If someone wants to start a business, what advice would you give them?

Don’t expect every day to be easy, and don’t let a difficult day convince you to quit. Learn your costs, listen to your customers and be willing to adjust. Being good at what you do is important, but so is learning how to run the business. Keep learning and keep going.

What is one piece of feedback from a happy customer or client that you won't forget?

Some of the most meaningful feedback is when customers say our food reminds them of home. That tells me it brings back a good memory, not just a good taste. Being able to give someone that feeling is special to me.

Where do you see your company in the future?

I’m working toward growing Boujee Baker beyond one location and expanding our catering and mobile dessert bars. I’m also exploring a production kitchen that could support additional locations. I want to grow while keeping the quality, personality and homemade food people know us for.

What is the biggest misconception about your industry?

That running a bakery is just about baking. The baking is only part of the job. You’re also managing staff, ordering supplies, watching costs, planning production and taking care of customers. A beautiful dessert takes work, but keeping the whole business running takes just as much attention.

What has been one of your biggest struggles building your business, and how did you deal with it?

One challenge has been balancing growth with having enough staff. When the shop is busy and catering orders are coming in, I often have to step in wherever I’m needed. I’m learning that growing a business also means making practical changes so we can continue serving our customers well.

Who was your favorite music artist and athlete growing up?

Growing up, some of my favorite music artists were Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and Lionel Richie. I wasn’t really into sports back then, so I didn’t have a favorite athlete, but I enjoy sports now! My favorite athletes today are Salvador Perez and Travis Kelce.

Any shoutouts you want to make?

I want to thank my husband, Richard, for sticking by my side and helping me build my dream of leaving a legacy. Without his support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. His patience and love have kept me grounded and moving forward.

I also want to thank my children, grandchildren, my mom and siblings for being part of my journey, and my staff. To our customers, your support means more than you know. Thank you for believing in Boujee Baker and helping me bring this dream to life.

Where can our readers learn more about you and your company?

Visit www.boujeebakerkc.com or stop by Boujee Baker KC at 2311 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64127. You can also call 816-800-4066 or email joyce@boujeebakerkc.com.