Meet Ashley Kaye | Turning Tragedy to Triumph

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Kaye and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Life doesn’t prepare you for the moments when everything falls apart. For me, it started with homelessness, then spiraled through struggles that most people could never imagine, but the real test came when my child experienced a mental health crisis on January 11th. As a mother, there was never a question of what needed to be done—I had to be there.

I’ve always worked hard, juggling remote jobs while trying to be present for my family, but no matter how dedicated I was, the world of employers never seemed to prioritize what mattered most: being a mother. I had just taken on a new job, and after giving my heart to the position, I called my employer on January 13th to let them know I needed a single day to admit my child into treatment. What I didn’t expect was to be fired—without explanation, without compassion, without a second thought.

In that heartbreaking moment, something inside me clicked. I realized that no job, no paycheck, no title would ever be worth sacrificing the person I was—worth sacrificing my children’s well-being. And so, I made a choice. A choice to be the mother my children needed. A choice to put family first. A choice to finally pour my heart into Six Bakery—the side hustle I had always dreamed of turning into something more.

Six Bakery isn’t just a business to me; it’s a testament to survival, to finding strength in the darkest of times, and to reclaiming the power over my life. It’s about creating something that allows me to be there for my children while building something beautiful from scratch, one baked good at a time.

This is just a small slice of my story. This is my passion. And it’s just the beginning.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I started Six Bakery back in 2017, baking as a way to secure funds for a deposit on an apartment. At the time, I didn’t know it would evolve into the business it is today, but it was something I could control, something I could build with my own hands, something that could help me survive. What began as a small effort to meet an immediate need slowly grew into a passion, a mission, and a dream that kept me going even through the darkest times.

As my business began to grow, I wanted to offer more than just the traditional baked goods. So, I started shipping my items, reaching customers far beyond my local area. I also created a custom cookie line, bringing a personal touch to every order. This line has become a fan favorite—whether it’s for birthdays, weddings, or corporate events, people love the unique flavors and creative designs I bring to life. Every product I create is made with love and care, and I take pride in knowing my treats bring joy to so many.

But the road hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced many challenges, not just in the struggles of life, but also in the competitive world of small business. In a saturated market, it’s hard for the “new girl” to get a chance. Many people are hesitant to try something new, especially when there are so many well-established names around. But I didn’t let that stop me. I had a vision and a belief that my passion for what I do would shine through. Slowly, word got around, and people began to see the heart and care that went into every product I created.

Through it all, I’ve learned some powerful lessons:

Resilience is key. There will be moments when you feel like giving up, but it’s in those moments that you need to push through the most. Life will knock you down, but you have to find the strength to get back up.

Don’t be afraid to start small. My business didn’t grow overnight, and that’s okay. Every small step forward counts. You don’t need to have it all figured out at once.

Trust your vision. There will be people who doubt you, who don’t understand your dream, but it’s your vision and your heart that will carry you. Don’t let anyone make you feel like your dreams aren’t worth chasing.

Family comes first. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about money or recognition—it’s about being there for the people who matter most and creating something that allows you to live life on your own terms.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and Six Bakery, it’s this: we’re more than just a bakery. We’re a story of resilience, love, and the power of never giving up on your dreams, no matter the obstacles in your way. Every item we create is a reminder that, no matter what life throws at you, you have the power to rise, rebuild, and create something beautiful.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1 – Greensboro: Start your day at The Green Bean for coffee, then explore the Greensboro Science Center (zoo and aquarium!). Grab lunch at Crafted – Art of the Taco, and stroll through Greensboro’s Bog Garden. For dinner, try The Table for farm-to-table Southern cuisine. Finish with drinks at The O.Henry Hotel.

Day 2 – Winston-Salem: Begin at The Camino Bakery, then wander through Old Salem Museums & Gardens. Lunch at Foothills Brewing, followed by a peaceful afternoon at Reynolda Gardens. Dinner at The Restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton or The Porch. End with live music at Ziggy’s.

Day 3 – High Point: Breakfast at The French Toast. Spend the morning at High Point City Lake Park, then lunch at Giacomo’s. Check out the High Point Museum and visit The International Home Furnishings Market. For dinner, enjoy seafood at Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar. End the night at The Bearded Goat bar.

Day 4 – Raleigh: Breakfast at Big Ed’s City Market, then head to the NC Museum of Natural Sciences. Lunch at The Cowfish, followed by a stroll through Pullen Park. Dinner at Poole’s Diner and drinks at The Architect Bar & Social House.

Day 5 & 6 – Charlotte: Kick off with pastries at Amélie’s French Bakery, then visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame or Discovery Place Science. For lunch, try Mert’s Heart and Soul. Explore NoDa arts district, enjoy dinner at The Fig Tree Restaurant, and wrap up with cocktails at The Cotton Room.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My Shout Out Goes to Izayah, Makhia, Zyon, Sa’Nyah, Nehimyah and Gianna- My 6 –

Also, My Partner, Rodney, Who never realized My Passion would become his Part time job lol. Carrying Cakes to cars, Cleaning behind me when I’m running against a deadline, Helping me fold boxes and Label Items. He is Amazing he is also an Epilepsy Warrior and Fights his own Battles everyday…….. I’m so amazingly Grateful for him..

Website: https://SixBakery336.com

Instagram: @ibakeyouhappy336

Facebook: Six Bakery and Events

Other: TikTok- @Ibakeyouhappy336