Interview with Brooke of Sucre Shop

You know those party items that you see and think, “Oh gosh, those are so cute that I don’t even want to use them—I just want to look at them!” Well, Brooke’s items from Sucre Shop have that effect on me. Actually, on second thought, they’re just too cute not to use. Sucre Shop’s handmade, personalized wooden utensils, scoops, and cups are perfect for any party, summertime barbeque, or ice cream on the porch. I had the opportunity to ask Brooke a few questions about her life and business, so enjoy this glimpse inside her world, and then plan your next party with these must-have utensils!

Brooke, your wooden utensils are absolutely charming. How does one get started making utensils? Where did it all begin for you?

Brooke: I’ve been creating for years including everything from bookbinding to screen printing and quilting. I’ve always loved a good craft, a perfect stitch, a crisp fold, or clean print. I love taking a skill and applying it to a different craft. Like our paper covered utensils, for example. I don’t think I would have those in my shop if I hadn’t spent years making journals, binding books, and making cards and invitations.

I started a craft blog, and after about a year of blogging about projects I made that other people had designed, I made a conscious decision to create my own designs and write about them. I think having the blog (even if no one read it!) really pushed me to come up with new ideas. That was about the time I thought it would be fun for my kids to have some little wooden ice cream spoons for summer treats. It has just all come together in an amazing way.

I read that your utensils are compostable and biodegradable, which I love. But for the really frugal person, are they re-usable? At least once?

Brooke: We are composting some now! They are 100% biodegradable and compostable because they are untreated, natural wood, and that’s why they are intended for one-time use. They’re a great product that you can feel good about using! Our scoops, which are great for dessert bars, are reusable!

You certainly have your hands full with a booming business, but do you have plans to expand with even more products in the future?

Brooke: I am expanding our line of ice cream cups with some great retro treat and birthday designs. And you can also look for us to do some work with some very major stylists and bakeries coming up soon! Can’t wait to share the details! Yeah, I love my job.

Do you do all the art and graphics yourself?

Brooke: I did until very recently! I have some talented friends with design experience who I leaned on to help get me through more complicated designs. It’s been amazing to grow so fast and change from a one-person shop to having this amazing team, including the graphic artists and designers I get to work with every day!

I noticed on your blog that you also have graphics for children’s clothing, among other endeavors. You’re very crafty! What’s your favorite creative outlet right now?

Brooke: Thanks! I don’t have as much time for concentrating on big projects, so I end up doing quick things with what I have lying around. I recently picked up this amazing set of paper tape from Todd Oldham’s Kid Made Modern line at Target and had so much fun with my kids making designs on ice cream cups!

Do you use your own utensils at home a lot, or just special occasions?

Brooke: We use them a lot! Not for a weeknight dinner, but they’re great for eating al fresco and for get-togethers. My husband and kids use misprints for their lunch every day.

What is your all-time favorite dessert?

Brooke: Brookies! Not many people are lucky enough to have a namesake dessert. For those who have not yet experienced the Brookie, they are part brownie, part cookie, all baked together, and they are YUMMY!