THE (CUP) CAKE BOSS

Breanna Herrick

Owner and Operator, Bre’s Cupcakin’ Around

SUPERPOWER: Helping others

When a family member became ill when Breanna Herrick was twelve, she wanted to do something that could make a difference. Self-taught using YouTube videos and online recipes, she baked cupcakes to raise money and was supported by her family, friends, and community. The experience left an impact on her, and she eventually created Bre’s Cupcakin’ Around, a baking business that frequently fundraises for community members and organizations in need.

Herrick has raised over $45,000 through her fundraising journey. She also participated in Cake Boss Buddy Valastro’s national contest The Greatest Baker last year. The competition raises money for the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, supporting families that are navigating childhood cancer, and Herrick made it to the semi-finals.

A junior at Marietta College, Herrick is studying to be a high school special education teacher. She dreams of being able to use her business and baking knowledge to help her future students take on challenges—like running a baking business themselves—that could help them learn important skills like food handling practices and money management.

For Herrick, helping others is the most important thing, and that generosity of spirit empowers not only her but the community she loves. And the community loves her right back, showing up to support her in every way they can in all she takes on. “I’ve been taken aback by how much my community supports me and everything that I do. I can help people and do the things that I love to do, and it’s a wonderful cycle. That’s what it’s all about.”

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Since 2014 WV Living magazine has been honoring West Virginia Wonder Women, amazing women who are raising the bar in their communities, serving as beacons of light in their industries, and forcing change for the greater good. WV Living is proud to celebrate these Appalachian mothers, millennials, and mavens proving that in a time full of uncertainty, divisiveness, and hate, love for one another is all we really need. No need for bulletproof bracelets or a golden lasso of truth—these women are creating a better West Virginia with their can-do attitudes and Mountain State spirit.