Sarasota police officer Lauren McElyea has channeled her baking hobby into a new venture called Serotonin & Sugar. The company specializes in custom-decorated sugar cookies made in small batches for events and holidays. McElyea started the business as a creative escape from her day job, according to details from the company’s launch.

Orders feature designs tailored to customer stories, from corporate logos to seasonal themes. McElyea uses quality ingredients with options for gluten-free, dairy-free, organic or dye-free cookies. Each batch gets individual attention to detail.

The name Serotonin & Sugar nods to the treats’ goal: delivering joy and a brief pause amid hectic routines. McElyea juggles patrols and public service with late-night baking sessions. She serves the Sarasota and Manatee County areas, requiring a minimum dozen cookies for custom designs.

Business kicked off recently, with McElyea handling everything from concept to delivery. Customers order for weddings, birthdays, office parties or holidays. Premium choices let buyers match dietary needs exactly.

“It’s about sparking happiness and connection,” McElyea said in a company statement. Her police background adds discipline to the operation. She sources local ingredients where possible and pipes complex patterns by hand.

Early feedback highlights the cookies’ taste and presentation. One client booked a batch for a baby shower with personalized elephant motifs. Another requested team logos for a company retreat in Bradenton.

McElyea learned baking from family recipes growing up in Florida. She experimented with royal icing techniques during off-duty hours. The business now fills a gap for artisanal sweets in the region.

Orders come through the Serotonin & Sugar website or direct messages. Turnaround varies by complexity, typically three to five days. Pricing starts at standard rates per dozen, rising for elaborate designs or specialty ingredients.

As Sarasota’s food scene grows, McElyea joins other locals blending professions with passions. Her story resonates with first responders seeking outlets beyond the badge. The company plans pop-up events at farmers markets soon.