Balancing school, clubs, sports and jobs is hard enough for a high school student’s schedule. TaJheia Vasser (12) handles this daunting task, having started her own candy and treat business in addition to handling her education and extracurriculars. The business allows students to support Vasser and spread her unique business style with others. 

JustDippin’, which launched in the fall of 2017, sells a variety of treats that include chocolate dipped strawberries, candy apples, cake pops and cheesecake-filled waffle cones that inspired the business name. 

“After months of giving candy apples and different treats to my friends, many other people began to ask for my business information and prices,” Vasser said. “I contemplated for a week … decided to start the business by creating a catchy name and menu with the assistance of my mother.”

Whether customers are from White Station or around the Memphis community, treats are accessible to order through multiple social media platforms, like Snapchat and Instagram, which makes the treat business different from others. 

“Customer service is excellent,” Kyla Thornton (12) said. “She is patient with her customers, nice and informative. She listens and tries her best to accommodate the customers’ needs.”

Contrary to typical bakery goods, Vasser’s treats are one of a kind with sweets being produced in a way that reflects her style and personality. 

“The products are made with love … she handmakes every treat and makes sure it’s perfect,” Thornton said.

JustDippin’ encounters busy times throughout the year that require creating numerous treats for customers’ significant others, holidays or other occasions. 

“In autumn, the number of orders is at its highest … multiple ‘going-away’ parties for college students and Halloween parties,” Vasser said. “There’s an increase in orders for holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day.” 

Vasser’s interest in the baking industry in combination with her creativity prompted the founding of JustDippin’.

“I have always been interested in entrepreneurship and finding hobbies that are truly entertaining to one’s self,” Vasser said. “My passion for baking stems from how desserts allow me to express my creativity while putting smiles on the faces of my family, friends and customers.”

From celebrities to loved ones, Vasser has gained encouragement and experience to take her affinity for baking to a level that allows her to share her talent with others.  

“One of my biggest inspirations in the food industry is Tabitha Brown,” Vasser said. “As I watched her cook and grow her platform over the few years, it motivates me to keep improving and never be afraid to be creative.”

Vasser is very proud of starting her own business, especially still as a high school student. 

“[It] gives me a sense of fulfillment because I’m able to enjoy my hobby every day while creating a source of income for myself,” Vasser said. “When someone makes a purchase, I am pleased that I could be a part and add positivity to their day. A customer’s feedback always motivates me to keep going and getting better at my craft.”