Olena and her Eastern European baked goods (by Lucy Claxton)
[Lucy Claxton, from Ignite, has been helping Olena to start a business. Eltham Farmers’ Market has been supporting the project by providing Olena a space once a month. Olena’s business venture is called EML Art Cookies.]
Olena arrived in Australia with her husband and three daughters in 2022 after fleeing conflict in her Ukrainian homeland. Because her medical qualifications are not recognised in Australia, Olena channelled her passion for baking into a business venture: EML Art Cookies. Named after her daughters’ initials, EML Art Cookies started as a small operation that needed strategic support and guidance to grow.
When Olena first engaged with Ignite in February 2024, she needed to find a place to sell her traditional Eastern European treats and custom cookies. Eltham Farmers’ Market became that place. Olena’s journey at the market began with a trial stall for Mother’s Day. The market organisers kindly lent her essential equipment, including a marquee, table and A-frame, helping her establish a professional setup and make a strong debut. I worked closely with Olena and the market organisers to prepare for her stall and refine her product presentation, including designing a professional logo. Her first market was a positive day of trading, followed by a direct order from a customer who had enjoyed her baked goods at the market. This experience boosted Olena’s confidence, particularly in engaging with customers despite initial concerns about her English skills.
Since then, Olena has grown in both confidence and skill. In just six months, she has transformed her business from an idea into an operation with regular market stalls, an online presence and the potential for wholesale partnerships with local cafes.
Many thanks to Eltham Farmers’ Market for their generosity and support, which has been instrumental in Olena’s business journey.
Catch Olena at Eltham Farmers’ Market on the first Sunday of every month for the remainder of 2024 or buy her cookies and pies online.