Our #GirlBossesOfGreatBritain span across so many industries, and so many parts of the UK. From humble artisan studios to extravagant work spaces, as long as you have a passion and turn it into a pay-check, you’re a #GirlBoss in our eyes. One industry that is paving the way for independent girl bosses is the confectionary industry, as many of these brands are developing from home kitchens across the country. Claire Brennan, founder of What The Fudge is a shining example of how one little idea, can turn into being featured in Vogue. Our writer Jenna caught up with the confectionary mogul to discuss how WTF was founded and what’s next…
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JC: So after reading a little bit more about you and What The Fudge, we love that you do things the old-fashioned way and hand produce each batch. Why is the artisan way important to you?
CB: The taste says it all! I believe in creating the highest quality products possible, something, which can’t be found in shops or easily replicated. This is what makes us truly unique. The method we use takes a very long time to make, but the results speak for themselves.
JC: They definitely do! We see that it was actually your friends who suggested you turn your passion into a pay check – was there a specific moment when you decided to create What The Fudge?
CB: I think when I received such good feedback; it made me wonder if it could become a job for me. I really enjoyed creating new flavour combinations, and developed a passion and drive that I hadn’t experienced before.
JC: Can you tell us more about your history before founding WTF?
CB: Before WTF, I had had a few part time jobs, as our children were still young. We have four children, so a lot of my time was spent looking after them before they were at an age when they could attend school.
JC: It’s awesome to see that your fudge is Gluten Free, would you ever delve into Vegan/Dairy Free products?
CB: I would love to, but we simply don’t have the time or space at present – which is a shame!
JC: Your ‘Core Blimey’ range has definitely got our attention as well as our mouths watering! How did you come up with that concept?
CB: I wanted something luxurious, and to incorporate fudge into a jar that would look nice as gifts. Layering sweets inside seemed too simple and not creative enough for me! That’s when I thought about adding a core right down the centre of the jar, finished with more treats on top. Our Core Blimey Jars have even been in Vogue magazine!
JC: If it’s good enough for Vogue, it’s definitely good enough for #TeamCoco! Who would be your dream stockist or brand ambassador?
CB: I haven’t really thought about this as I don’t think I could ever make enough! I’d like to stay quite an exclusive brand, maybe one day eventually stocking in artisan cafes/restaurants.
JC: Can you tell us about a recent ‘Girl Boss’ moment?
CB: Every day! I feel so lucky being able to support my family from my ideas. My husband has been able to leave his full job and join me in working in the kitchen, this is what I’m proud of. Also, being in vogue magazine 3 times! Can’t forget that!
JC: What has been the hardest part of running your own online business?
CB: Being “discovered”. I started back in November 2014, it is only over the last 12 months that we have grown to a significant level. Perseverance has been key as I struggle keeping up with the admin side of things. When you get 100s of messages a day and work at least 14-hour days, there isn’t always a lot of time to get that kind of thing done.
JC: What’s in the pipeline for 2019?
CB: I love getting creative in the kitchen; this means there are always lots of new products to test out! Our range already includes fudge slices, Core Blimey jars, stuffed fudge wheels, loaves, chocolate bark, create your own items and so much more, so it’s exciting to see what we come up with next!
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To discover more about What The Fudge and to order your own sweet treats visit https://wtfudgeuk.co.uk . But be quick as pre-orders sell out incredibly fast!
Also, you can take a look at the full collection via their Instagram @WhatTheFudgeUK
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