Lessons from a Mug Cake Mogul

When CSU alumna Nina Lawless (MSOT ’15) walked away from a career in occupational therapy to co-found Mugsy Bakes, she wasn’t just starting a dessert brand — she was testing herself as an entrepreneur. What began with library-printed labels and hand-packed mixes at Cleveland farmers' markets has grown into a company with products on the shelves of Market District, Fresh Thyme, and Heinen’s.

Here are her five biggest lessons.

1. Validate your idea early and cheaply

Farmers markets were Mugsy Bakes’ proving ground — a low-risk way to test demand.

“We had to make sure people would actually pay for it. Just because the white space exists doesn’t mean it needs to be filled.”

2. Embrace community and partnerships

Entrepreneurship is isolating without support. Nina leaned on co-working, mentorship groups, and other women founders.

“Find a community of people in your field. For us, Wonder Women of Food Cleveland has been the most helpful resource.”

3. Grow with intention, not just ambition

She resists chasing growth for growth’s sake, keeping the company personal and sustainable.

“We want to grow, but not too big. That connection to community is what matters most.”

4. Redefine setbacks as part of the process

Two earlier therapy businesses didn’t last, but each one prepared her for Mugsy Bakes.

“It’s never too late, and nothing is failure—it’s all feedback.”

5. Balance life and business with trust and support

Launching while pregnant and raising a newborn required trust in her co-founder and family.

“It takes a village. I trust my business partner more than I trust myself sometimes.”

For Nina, entrepreneurship isn’t about mug cakes alone — it’s about building something joyful, sustainable, and rooted in community. 

And whether you’re a student with a dream or a professional eyeing a pivot, remember Nina’s words: “Every connection matters.”