Melissa Ben-Ishay is a celebrated entrepreneur and the creative force behind Baked by Melissa, the New York-based company famous for its delightful mini cupcakes. Melissa’s journey from a budding baker to a successful businesswoman is a tale of resilience, creativity, and passion.

Born in Hillsdale, New Jersey, Melissa attended Syracuse University and graduated with a degree in Child and Family Studies. Her early career began in advertising, but a pivotal moment came in 2008 when she was unexpectedly fired from her job. Encouraged by her brother, Brian Bushell, Melissa turned her hobby of baking into a full-fledged career. This transformative period was not just about a career shift but also about proving her entrepreneurial spirit​.

Melissa’s approach to business is deeply intertwined with her personal touch and commitment to quality. Starting with baking cupcakes in her kitchen, she quickly turned her passion into a popular brand by selling her unique mini cupcakes at holiday markets in Union Square and Bryant Park. Her business acumen led to the opening of the first Baked by Melissa store in SoHo in 2009, which has since grown to include multiple locations across New York City​.

In 2017, Melissa authored “Cakes by Melissa: Life Is What You Bake It,” where she shares over 120 recipes, offering insights into her creative process and her philosophy on baking and life. Her book reflects her ethos of making life sweeter, one small bite at a time, which is also a cornerstone of her business model​.

Melissa Ben Ishay
Melissa Ben Ishay

As a CEO, Melissa has been instrumental in not just managing the company but also being its creative heart. She has been involved in every aspect of the business, from product development to marketing and customer engagement. Her hands-on approach and dedication to crafting the perfect bite-sized treats have helped establish Baked by Melissa as a beloved brand​.

Starting in 2024, Melissa expanded her influence by entering the digital content space with a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog allows her to apply her detailed, product-focused approach to a wider array of items, providing her audience with reliable reviews and useful tips. Her entries are crafted with the same care and attention to detail that she puts into her cupcakes, ensuring that her readers receive trustworthy and well-considered advice. The blog covers a range of products, from kitchen gadgets and baking tools to broader lifestyle items, reflecting Melissa’s broad interests and expertise​.

Melissa’s story is not just about business success; it’s about how personal passion, when combined with resilience and a willingness to take risks, can lead to substantial achievements. Her journey continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and bakers around the world.

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Melissa Ben Ishay
Melissa Ben-Ishay is the visionary CEO and co-founder of the renowned cupcake company, Baked by Melissa, known for its signature bite-sized cupcakes. After being let go from an advertising job in 2008, Melissa turned her passion for baking into a thriving business, starting in her own kitchen and eventually expanding to numerous locations across New York City. Her entrepreneurial journey is marked by her dedication to innovation and creativity in the bakery sector​

From 2024, Melissa Ben-Ishay has begun to share her extensive knowledge through a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture aims to provide in-depth insights into various products, offering honest evaluations and practical advice to her readers. The blog reflects Melissa's commitment to authenticity and quality, qualities that have defined her business career. Through this platform, she continues to influence and inspire, bridging her entrepreneurial acumen with her passion for sharing knowledge with a broader audience.
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