Brown's Sweet Treats celebrates 20 years

In 2000, Darlene Brown took a risk and left her job at Caswell Center to open a bakery. Twenty years later, she has accomplished many things including making a cake and cookies for the Carolina Tarheels Basketball team, baking for Lenoir County and the Chamber of Commerce, and hopes to continue to serve current and potential customers for another 20 years.

Brown attributes her faith to the success of her business.

Darlene Brown of Brown’s Sweet Treats. Photo: Supplied by Darlene Brown

“God, I give it all to God. Repeat customers and making people happy. We are all looking for something to be happy about in these times. I think my cakes, cupcakes, and wedding cakes make people happy,” said Brown.

While her business did experience a slower pace at the onset of the pandemic, business is picking back up as more weddings and events are taking place. Brown has plans to expand for a full line of products that customers can come in and buy at any time of the day.

“The best part is seeing people smile when they see the cake. When kids come in their face just lights up when they see the cakes,” said Brown.

To commemorate 20 years in business, Brown has invited all of her past and future customers to participate in a cupcake drive where she will pass out a goodie bag through the window so that the patrons will not have to get out of their car.

“Everyone is different. Once I talk to people and get their personality, I put it into the cake,” said Brown.

Brown’s Sweet Treats is located on Vernon Ave. in Kinston.

“Thank everybody for always supporting me and my business. I would like for everybody to come through to the cupcake drive-through on Saturday, October 3 from 9 am - 4 pm. I look forward to serving you for 20 more years.”