York mum’s Sian Longhorne’s success with Mi Little Bakes

Mi Little Bakes was founded by Sian Longhorne, a former Human Resources manager who worked more than 20 years with the NHS.

The mum made the switch when she was off sick from her role, during which her young daughter was diagnosed with autism.

This led Sian to cut her NHS hours to one day a week to focus on her caring commitments.

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However, the mum launched Mi Little Bakes, named after her children Mila and Isaac, after she found baking was a way to unwind during a time of challenge.

The business specialises in brownies, cookies, biscuits, cupcakes and bespoke celebration cakes, with a focus on seasonal flavours and supporting local independent suppliers wherever possible.

Sian hard at work in her fulfilling career

Mi Little Bakes reports strong support from the local community, including Sian’s first ever market stall selling out in less than two hours.

This confirmed a market need, leading her to expand with seasonal treat boxes, mixed bake boxes and bespoke celebration cakes, all marketed through social media and ordered directly via direct message.

Community involvement remains an important part of the business. Mi Little Bakes has worked closely with the local school attended by Sian’s children, gifting treats for parents during Christmas performances.

Sian has also donated a proportion of sales to the National Autistic Society and she previously supported Macmillan, with stall fees from her first market donated to the charity.

Sian said: “I never imagined Mi Little Bakes would be as successful as it has been in its first nine months. I’m incredibly grateful to my customers and everyone who has supported me, and proud of myself for taking the leap. This business allows me to be present for my children while still having something that challenges and fulfils me.”

Running Mi Little Bakes involves early mornings, late nights and plenty of organisation, with baking fitted around school routines and family life.

From testing new flavour combinations to designing cake toppers while bakes are in the oven, Sian balances creativity with the practical realities of running a small food business from home.

Looking ahead, Sian says she plans to continue growing Mi Little Bakes at a sustainable pace, focusing on refining her core skills, understanding her customers and offering seasonal products throughout the year.

For more information, follow Mi Little Bakes on Instagram at @milittlebakes or on Facebook.