Thursday, October 1, 2026
Valley Stream business owner Darlene J. Edwards was recognized as an honoree by the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce at the 40th Annual Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce Businessperson of the Year and Legislative Breakfast, held at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury on Oct. 31.
Edwards was one of 36 honorees celebrated from across Nassau County.
Edwards is the founder of The Best Goodie Bag Inc., a family-run cakery in Valley Stream known for its custom cakes, banana pudding, cookies, cupcakes, and other desserts. Before launching her business, Edwards served for more than 20 years with the NYPD, including nine years as a police sergeant. She discovered her passion for baking after making desserts for her mother’s 84th birthday celebration.
Self-taught and family-driven, Edwards opened The Best Goodie Bag’s storefront on Oct. 31, 2018, alongside her daughters and niece. Her business has since gained recognition both locally and nationally. She is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, appeared on Netflix’s “Sugar Rush” baking competition, and has completed catering projects for Goldman Sachs, The Oprah Winfrey Network and more.
The Best Goodie Bag Inc. also plays an active role in the community, organizing events such as a Juneteenth Fair, an annual Halloween party and a Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser benefiting residents.
