Ellington

Sedrick and Malinda Lilley, owners of Campbell's Bakery, have always wanted to be the owners of a business. In November 2008, this became a reality when they re-opened Campbell's Bakery. Through a friend, they found out the bakery was for sale. "That was all she wrote," Sedrick says.

The store's mission is to provide the freshest and best product available, while maintaining the Campbell's tradition of service. Malinda, a Jackson local, says that they provide "a family-oriented place … (and) items that you can't get from any other bakery," like custom cakes and pastries.

As a small business, Sedrick sees financing as the biggest challenge. In the current economy, it is cumbersome to get small business loans, so the couple is slowly, but steadily growing their business and making it work with just the essentials.

If you are planning on starting a new business, Sedrick's advice is basic: "Do your research. Dot your Is and cross your Ts. And make sure you are in it for the long haul."

Malinda echoes that opinion. "Do your homework," she says.

Campbell's is located at 3013 N. State St. in Fondren. You cannot miss the small pink building. They are open 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Call 601-362-4628. The petit fours and the tea cakes are a must.