Inspirational Woman: Kathryn Bricken | Founder, Doughlicious

Kathryn Bricken, Mum and now entrepreneur, has a passion for baking. From an early age she understood how food is more than fuel; it is a way of bringing people together and making magical memories. After moving to London, Kathryn became famous amongst her friends for baking the best American-style cookies using the finest natural ingredients. She was often asked to make extra dough so that her friends could bake cookies at home. In 2014 Kathryn decided to share her secret with the rest of the UK … Thus, Doughlicious was born.

Tell us a bit about yourself, background and your current role

I am a cookie and doughnut addict, I have always loved baking! I love to travel to places just to try specific desserts. Good food brings people together and makes memories, this is what sparked my imagination to share my love of great cookies with the world!

I love to entertain, I am always baking and sharing all my creations with friends. The Doughlicious idea was born when a friend requested dough to take home so they could enjoy that fresh-baked gooeyness. They loved the fact that my cookies were healthier than shop-bought alternatives – made with high quality ingredients and preservative-free.

I am now CEO and still head of NPD.  I love creating recipes innovative desserts that are less processed and better for you. We love to Say: Dough As You Please.  Have fun with our dough and create beautiful recipes and memories.

Did you ever sit down and plan your career?

Absolutely not! Firstly, I never sit! I have a lot of energy.  Life is crazy and I believe we all somehow end up where we are supposed to be.

Have you faced any challenges along the way?

Yes, I think the hardest part of starting a business is the financials.  More time and money has been invested in the business than I ever would have thought.  It has been difficult at times but we have pushed through to make it work.

What has been your biggest achievement to date?

Everyday feels like an achievement but when customers let us know that they love our product it is very rewarding. Hearing positive feedback really makes the hardships worthwhile.

What one thing do you believe has been a major factor in you achieving success?

Firstly we would not be where we are today without an amazing product. However behind the scenes it takes a super supportive staff and I am very lucky to have a team that adore Doughlicious as much as I do. It definitely takes a village to build a successful business.

How do you feel about mentoring? Have you mentored anyone or are you someone’s mentee?

I always want help others succed would be happy to support and mentor. I have a great network of fellow foodies and we support eachother which is crucial in this business. I have mentored a few other start ups and one through to launch which is very exciting.

If you could change one thing to accelerate the pace of change for Gender Equality, what would it be?

I am part of a group “Buy Women Owned”  and is is a very supportive network. I think great women should get the recognition deserved groups like this need to continue in order to continue the conversation arounf gender equality in business. 

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self what would it be?

Don’t give up!  It is not always plain sailing and there will always be challenges but if you believe in what you are doing, passion breeds success.

What is your next challenge and what are you hoping to achieve in the future?

Our next challenge is the USA,  I want Doughlicious to hopefully have a presence by 2023.