We all daydream about swapping our taxing jobs for something more fulfilling, right? Imagine living like a star from a romantic comedy, much like Meryl Streep in It's Complicated, impressing everyone with culinary skills. For Candace Nelson, this fantasy became her reality.
After the dot-com crash, Candace transitioned from investment banking to pastry arts, launching a custom cake business in San Francisco. What seemed like a setback was just the beginning of her adventure.
Fast forward two decades, and she's a prominent entrepreneur, co-founding Sprinkles Cupcakes, the first cupcake bakery, just as the world embraced this popular treat. With a bestselling book, television appearances, and numerous projects underway, Candace is just getting warmed up.
Candace Nelson on Entrepreneurship, Growth, and Daily Routines for Success
How does one sustain such drive, keep creativity flowing, and achieve remarkable success? Our conversation revealed that Candace prioritizes routines that empower her and propel her career forward. From essential workouts to starting her day with a wholesome meal, she understands the habits that fuel her inspiration.
Candace shared invaluable insights on entrepreneurship, offering life-changing wisdom for anyone pursuing their passion. Read on for her morning rituals and proactive strategies for productivity.
Can you share your entrepreneurial journey and experiences?
Entrepreneurship is filled with ups and downs, but there's nothing like envisioning something new and making it a reality. Leaving a stable corporate job to pursue my cupcake dream was daunting. I wasn't raised in a business-oriented environment, so I never saw myself as an entrepreneur; it was just an idea that wouldn't let go. Luckily, I had a supportive partner by my side from the start.
I strive to be less reactive and more strategically proactive each day.
What have you learned in the past year?
The feedback from female entrepreneurs has been overwhelming after the release of Sweet Success. It's heartening to see it resonate with my audience, highlighting the strong desire for support and community among startup founders.
Sweet Success: A Simple Recipe to Turn Your Passion Into Profit
Shop NowHow would you describe your personal style?
Chic, effortless, and understated. I love denim and prioritize comfort while keeping it stylish. Attention to detail is crucial; I appreciate quality and simplicity with a hint of surprise, like unique accents or a bright pop of color.
What does a standard day look like for you?
Since launching my book, Sweet Success, in November, my schedule is packed with events, interviews, and mentorship with young women from the Step Up Network. A typical workday includes meetings about new locations and initiatives at Pizzana, marketing planning, content creation for my brand, and supporting founders seeking funding. I also play the role of part-time chauffeur and cheerleader for my sons' sports.
When do you usually wake up?
I need my sleep—about 8 hours—so I don't rise super early. My husband handles breakfast for the boys (he's amazing!), and I usually get up around 7:30, just in time to grab coffee and check my phone before school drop-off.
What's your first action upon waking?
I put on my Caddis glasses and check my Oura ring score.
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What's your morning routine like?
I wish I could have an elaborate morning routine, but I don't rise early enough. I take a moment to set intentions and express gratitude before getting up. Once out of bed, I hydrate with water (mixed with electrolytes), brew coffee, review my calendar, and then take my son to school.
Outline your beauty routine from start to finish:
Candace's beauty regimen is simplistic yet elegant. With a few essential products, she achieves an effortless look that fits seamlessly into her busy mornings.
- She begins with Retrouvé products combined with the Georgia Louise Ionic Wand with Vitamin C.
- Next, she applies Relevant One and Done Sunscreen.
- For makeup, she finishes with Saie Dew Blush Liquid Cheek Blush, concealer, and highlighter from the acclaimed brand, Merit, along with Tower 28 lip gloss for color and a few strokes of her brow brush.
C+- Pure Ampoules Plus Ionic Wand
Shop NowRelevant One u0026 Done Everyday Cream With SPF 40
Shop NowSaie Dew Blush Liquid Cheek Blush
Shop NowMerit The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Foundation and Concealer Stick
Shop NowMerit Day Glow Dewy Highlighting Balm
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What's your breakfast routine?
I often skip breakfast, opting for coffee mixed with collagen and a splash of almond or cashew milk. If I do eat, I enjoy Greek yogurt topped with berries and hemp seeds, or gluten-free granola. On weekends, I might indulge in a dark chocolate Fonut, a delicious gluten-free donut from a local bakery. When traveling, Kroma porridge is my go-to.
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What essentials do you keep stocked in your fridge?
Organic blueberries from the farmers market, Elmhurst cashew milk, Japanese sweet potatoes, fresh gluten-free pasta with pesto, and a selection of alcohol-free beverages. (I explored many options during Dry January!)
What are your morning habits?
I skim through various news sources and inspirational content in my inbox, particularly Morning Brew, the Information, and Newsette.
What books do you love?
- Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed
- Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb
- The Neapolitan Novels by Elena Ferrante
- Proof of Heaven by Eben Alexander
- Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann
- Tenth of December by George Saunders
What's on your nightstand?
Caddis glasses, a silk scrunchie, an assortment of conditioning lip glosses, keepsake photo books from past trips with friends, a stack of non-fiction books to read, and the latest Cherry Bombe magazine.
Do you work out in the morning?
Sometimes. With life on the west coast, mornings are often busy with Zoom calls and emails from across the country. I frequently feel behind and choose to tackle some work before exercising. My fantastic trainer, Kadee Sweeney, guides me through Pilates and strength sessions, or I go for a power walk—either on the treadmill or outside for some sun. Typically, I work out for an hour, but on relaxed weekends, I stretch and roll for about 90 minutes.
What's your go-to outfit?
I'm a huge fan of Nili Lotan jeans; my favorite is the high-waisted Anna style. I love cozy sweaters, especially vests this season, and my go-to brands are Lisa Yang, La Ligne, and G Label. I also adore Marfa Stance vests and coats, often changing out the collars for different looks.
Nili Lotan Anna High Waist Wide Leg Jeans
Shop NowIf you had an extra hour in the morning, how would you spend it?
I'd focus on journaling my intentions and priorities for the day. As an entrepreneur, it's easy to get caught up in daily tasks rather than pursuing larger goals. I aim to be more strategically proactive.
What are a couple of things you do daily for a more present and fulfilling life?
Enjoying family dinners and discussing our experiences and lessons from the day.
What's the one trait that defines your success?
Integrity—both in words and actions. Always follow through on your commitments and do what's right.
Sentence Finishers:
I never leave the house without: my Horsenbuhs sunglasses.
If I had more hours in the day, I would: delve into more fiction and journal extensively!
Healthiest morning habit: a large bottle of water mixed with lemon DripDrop electrolytes.
Worst morning habit: reaching for my phone too soon.
One thing I want to be known for is: creating beloved brands.
What do you fear most? Becoming complacent.
When that fear arises, I: learn something new or take on a creative challenge.
One book I always recommend is: Essentialism.
One quality essential for success is: self-awareness.
Bath or shower? Shower—it's faster!
And what's your favorite shower product? When I'm not in media, I love to air-dry my hair naturally. I'm a fan of Tracy Ellis Ross's Pattern line for curly hair.
