When Reyna Swan couldn’t find a job, she decided to create one for herself. What started as a simple idea quickly became Delights by Reyna, a cookie business rooted in experience, resilience, and heart.
“I was inspired to start selling cookies because I was looking for a job for a really long time and I just wasn’t being hired anywhere,” Swan said.
Instead of waiting for an opportunity, she made one by selling cookies that she made. Baking was already second nature to her. She worked at a bakery with her grandmother for nine years, giving her a strong foundation and confidence in the kitchen.
While earning money was part of the goal, Reyna’s motivation runs deeper. “I wanted to make money to help my family financially during these times,” she shared. After the recent passing of her grandfather, Reyna began working toward paying for his headstone, turning her business into something deeply meaningful.
The first cookie Reyna ever sold was a s’mores cookie, which remains her favorite and her top seller. “My best seller has to be s’mores. I always sell out of that one first,” she said. She believes its popularity comes from how familiar and comforting the flavors are when combined.
Reyna prices her cookies carefully, taking into account ingredient costs, time, and labor. “I price my cookies by how much it costs to buy ingredients and how much time and labor I put into baking,” she explained. She also offers custom orders and special requests, with a minimum of six cookies per order.
Creating new flavors is a collaborative process. Reyna develops ideas by asking customers what they want, baking what she’s craving, or finding inspiration on TikTok. This approach keeps her menu fresh and connected to her audience.
Balancing school, baking, and life takes discipline. “I make sure I have all my schoolwork done before I do any baking,” Swan said. She usually bakes at night during the week and dedicates Sundays to baking after church.
Her advice to others is honest and practical. “Do not overwork yourself,” she said, explaining how baking every day once led to burnout. She also encourages confidence. “Don’t be nervous to put yourself out there… you’re trying to make money, who cares what people think.”
