-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Tiffany Rose, and how would you describe yourself to someone who has never met you?
I am a wife, a mother, a creative person with a serious passion for flavor and a heart for my community. I’m someone who balances motherhood, the professional world and the love of baking the best way I know how. Whether I’m designing a custom cake or managing a busy schedule, I lead with positivity and a “family-first” mindset. I’m a dreamer, a doer. I believe in celebrating the sweet moments in life.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I am Roanoke, through and through. A proud product of William Fleming High School, my upbringing was rooted in the values of hard work and connection. I was surrounded by a supportive family that eventually gave me the confidence to step out on my own as a business owner.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
Once high school was over, my next chapter was all about building a foundation for my future. I dove into the professional world, gaining extensive experience in healthcare administration and payroll. During this time, I also began nurturing my creative side, teaching myself the art of baking – a journey of trial, error, and eventually, a lot of flour and sugar!
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am the Owner and Lead Artist of Cake Bar by Tiffany. My responsibilities range from hand-crafting gourmet flavors like banana pudding cupcakes to creating spectacular custom cakes for all occasions. Managing marketing, social media and client bookings are all things that I do, too. I also serve as a payroll specialist, where I handle the complex, behind-the-scenes administrative work that keeps organizations running smoothly.
How important is family to you?
Family is my absolute “why.” Everything I do is for my husband and our three boys. Being a “boy mom” is a huge part of my identity – it’s busy, it’s loud, yet it’s so beautiful. They are my biggest cheerleaders and my greatest motivation to keep growing my business and career.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
It would be a mix of Roanoke’s own DJ Blast’s YouTube channel. Southern Soul would certainly be on this playlist. The kind of music that feels like home, regardless of where you are. I’d also have a mix of classic soulful artists and some of today’s heavy hitters.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
Roanoke is full of milestones for me! I love the energy of the local festivals and the feeling of community you get when you see familiar faces. My favorite memories involve simply being out and about in the city, seeing the Star on Mill Mountain and watching my business grow from a local dream into a reality that serves people.
What are some of your hobbies?
When I’m not in the kitchen, I love to read. I will pull out my Kindle and find a quiet space to enjoy a great book. I’m a Kindle girlie.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
My “Cake Family” – my customers and the community that supports my business – has had a massive impact. Their trust in me to handle their most special celebrations has pushed me to be a better artist and entrepreneur. The colleagues I’ve worked with in the administrative field have taught me the discipline and professional standards required to reach my dreams.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
To stop treating every setback like a final verdict. Trust your own timing. Most things that feel huge in the moment end up being temporary. Confidence usually comes from doing things scared, not waiting to feel ready first.
