Another sweet treat has arrived in the West Loop! Famed Molly’s Cupcakes, 179 Morgan St., has been open in the neighborhood since July 15. Molly’s Cupcakes West Loop owner and operator Chelsey Smith answered a few questions about the fan favorite cupcake shop.
Molly’s Cupcakes West Loop owner Chelsey Smith
Who are you?
I'm originally from Minnesota and have lived in Chicago since 2010 after a stint on the West Coast. I'm a wife, daughter, mother, sister, aunt, boss, yogi, ally, environmentalist, runner and reader.
How long have you been in the neighborhood?
We are new to the West Loop, [we] opened on July 15 of this year.
Why the West Loop?
The foodie scene here is strong and we are a great compliment to all the eateries & breweries in the area. We want to be the go-to spot for our neighbors, corporate and residents alike, when celebrating the big and little moments in life.
What are your top challenges in growing your business?
Molly's Cupcakes has big plans as we look to expand nationwide. I've got to be focused on building our corporate and events partnerships and generating awareness in our high profile neighborhood.
Why did you join the West Central?
I appreciate the programming that is coming out of WCA and think it is a great way to get to know the neighborhood and identify potential partnerships that can be win-win for other neighborhood businesses and organizations.
What makes Molly's Cupcakes unique?
I don't think people realize we are an on-premise, from scratch bakery that has a devoted fan base here in Chicago. We shred our own carrots for the carrot cake batter; we make the whip cream that tops our award-winning Peach Cobbler. There is so much care that goes into our products...and not preservatives. Molly was a third grade teacher who brought homemade cupcakes for her students. The school theme continues in our stores where customers of all ages can be a kid again and get excited about the perfect treat.
What gets you up in the morning?
My 21 month old hollering from his room.
What’s your favorite part of the West Loop?
I've been blown away by the warm welcome from neighbors - business owners, workers and people who live in the neighborhood.
Inside Molly’s Cupcakes West Loop
What does the future of Molly's Cupcakes look like?
We hope to be a cornerstone in the neighborhood and are excited to see almost half of our customers are returning guests. We give back to Chicago schools and plan to grow our program. Our corporate business is just beginning as we scale the excitement into the workplace and special events.
Describe Molly's Cupcakes in 140 characters or less
Award-winning bakery delivering centerfilled cupcakes inspired by classic desserts that make every day a celebration.
Bonus Question: If you were the mayor of Chicago for a day, what would you do?
Create a financial incentive for grocery stores, co-ops and bakeries to setup new businesses in food deserts and address the lack of adequate recycling and compost in the City by working with local operators.