ABOUT
TABITHA MEREADY/Owner/Baker
Bit by the acting bug at an early age, I've always enjoyed entertaining. My true creative love is entertaining with food. I get excited creating new experiences for loved ones and friends with food and creating a certain ambiance that moves them. I long to see that "Wow" on their faces when they come through the door.
Self-taught with all, cupcakes were a total stumble upon/change of life and direction for me.
With trial and error, the business has evolved over the years, but one thing has never changed.
I only advertise by word of mouth and I make cupcakes only.
Besides God, that is the reason for success.
The Peppered Cupcake is an attention getter. Who ever heard of putting peppers on cupcakes, right? My signature cupcake always consists of some sweet and savory pepper jelly as a daily flavor. Some flavors are Mango/Habanero, Peach/Chili, Plum/Horseradish, Tropical/Jalapeno...even Wasabi.
Keeping the cupcake concept "simple" was key to maintain a growing future. I offer gourmet cupcakes only. Modification or customizing any of the cupcakes has never been a part of my business concept. I also do not venture into any other aspects of baking. This allows me to focus on my mission. Creating an exciting cupcake for you.
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Over the years I've adapted and learned that more is not always better. It's stressful. Learning to work smarter has been a challenge as well. Cutting business hours and days became a must to spend quality time with my family. My downtown location has become a self-help cupcake boutique that allows you to shop, process payments and be on your way.
In 2022, I incorporated an Intelligent Digital Media Cupcake Vending machine, located at UNCW in the Fisher University Union next to Panda Express. The machine dispenses individual cupcakes and allows students and the public to purchase 7 days a week with longer hours. How exciting!!
With no formal training, I'm still humbled that folks would travel far and wide and remember to visit each year they visit the Port City. I've been featured in Our State magazine twice, Southern Living Magazine and a small segment called Sweet Treats with HGTV. Tooting the horn, The Peppered Cupcake remains the #1 Dessert place in Wilmington since 2014 on Yelp, Google and TripAdvisor.
So grateful for everyone's continued support!
Blessings to you, Tabitha
