Lubbock-Cooper FFA Member Turns Family Cookie Recipe into a Thriving Baking Business
Thursday, May 8, 2025 | Author: Texas FFA News
For Tatum Westbrook, a Lubbock-Cooper FFA member, what started as a family tradition has grown into a successful business focused on custom cookies and baked goods.
“I started by helping my grandma bake cookies, cakes, and brownies,” Westbrook shared. “Her sugar cookie recipe has been passed down for generations, and now I get to carry that on.”
After learning the recipe and practicing at home, she began baking independently. Encouraged by feedback from family and friends, she decided to turn her hobby into a business—bringing her grandmother's famous cookies to the Lubbock area.
From managing inventory and finances to promoting her cookies on social media, she’s grown her customer base.
“It started by word of mouth,” said Westbrook. “But once I started using social media, everything took off. I’ve had to learn how to keep up with demand, balance my school schedule, and still ensure every order is high quality.”
Her FFA network has been a key part of that growth. By connecting with fellow members, teachers, and families through FFA events, she found new customers and supporters who believed in her business.
“I never expected a family recipe to turn into something this rewarding,” Westbrook said. “It’s shown me what I’m capable of and how FFA can help turn a passion into a purpose.”
Westbrook’s successful project was also recognized as the Star Chapter in Agribusiness at the 2024 Texas FFA State Convention.
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