Laurie started a cookie business using her mom’s secret sugar cookie recipe. After years of making cookies out of her home, she met Collins Tuohy who had just tasted one of her beautifully decorated confections made for one of her little brother SJ’s events.
One Mother’s Legacy
Collins is the daughter of Leigh Anne Tuohy who is best known as the inspiration for Sandra Bullock’s Oscar winning performance in “The Blind Side”. Collins’ brother Michael Oher’s incredible story is featured in the movie. Michael went on to play offensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens, who won the 2013 Super Bowl. All of us in Nashville are elated to have Michael now playing for the Tennessee Titans this fall!
“I have tasted many, many, many cookies and Laurie’s are the best EVER!” says Collins. “She had me at the first bite! I was so eager to get her product out there that on our second meeting I sat down with a big-girl business plan.”
“I think I scared her a little. But I was raised to go big or go home! Luckily Laurie is just as aggressive as I am! She looked at my plan, tweaked a few things and it worked out perfectly. We are risk takers! We believe in our cookies.”
Definition of Whimsy – “A Fanciful Creation”
So these smart young women decided to join forces and grow their business into one of Memphis’ most delicious cookie shops around – The Whimsy Cookie Company. “We are two passionate women who own a very fast moving business,” says Collins. “We actually complement each other very well.”
The success of Collins’ family has been enormous. Her father Sean owns over 93 fast food franchises. A former Ole Miss Rebel basketball legend, Sean is also an NBC broadcaster for the Memphis Grizzlies. Her mom is a talented interior designer and motivational speaker.
The Tuohy family’s Making it Happen Foundation offers hope and opportunities for kids that are considered valueless by society and often fall through the cracks.
Finding Her Own Path
In spite of the many accomplishments of her family, Collins wants to make her own way in life. “My brothers have forged their own success through sports, and I wanted to do the same in some form or fashion.”
“My parents raised the three of us to be givers and taught us that you never look down on anyone unless you are reaching down to pull them up. The movie has definitely opened doors, but it was up to Laurie and me to do something once the door was opened.”
Collins’ family has been so supportive, but her parents expect the girls to put in long hours and realize that if there’s a job to be done at Whimsy, “Then Laurie and I better be willing to do it.” When they needed some large orders placed to buy their new oven, Michael stepped up and bought each of his team members a dozen cookies for Christmas. And when they needed help with their social media marketing, SJ showed them the ropes. Collins’ brothers are constantly using social media to push Whimsy. “Michael still talks about our 100 rating we got from the health department!” says Collins.
Nashville Wraps is honored to be part of their business. “We have so many uses for Nashville Wraps at Whimsy,” says Collins. “We use cello rolls, cello bags, raffia ribbon, basket boxes, clear lid boxes, satin ribbon, tissue paper and crinkle shred all as fast as we can order!”
The Home of the Blues, BBQ, Grizzlies and all things Elvis
Recently, they just opened their retail store on Poplar Avenue in a 100 year old landmark that housed The Gift and Art Shop for 60 years. When they remodeled, they not only painted the entire outside pink, the inside is all things Whimsical as well: sweet and sassy with a touch of Southern glam.
The Whimsy Cookie Company works with major party planners, catering companies, chefs, restaurants, florists, retail stores along with everyday people. They also offer their product wholesale and can be found in several stores around the country, including Fosters Market in North Carolina and Provisions in Oxford, Mississippi.
