We were lucky to catch up with Tori Mondazze recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Tori thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?
I started at the very start of covid. I was a new mom, and I had heard of everybody starting to be laid off of their jobs. Before I knew it, I didn’t have a job to go back to. I had to find a way to generate income to survive. I’ve always been naturally creative and baking was just a fun stress reliever for me but I always knew it was something I was good at. So I took a shot in the dark and started an Instagram page. I started off small, posing pictures of my cupcakes (hence the name) and before I knew it, I had people direct messaging me for custom cupcake orders. I took off pretty quickly and my little baking page became a whole business. Now here we are in 2024, I have expanded my menu and skills beyond my imagination.
Tori, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Hi, I’m Tori! I’m a luxury cake and dessert artist located in Orlando Florida. I specialize in buttercream cakes and cupcakes. Along with custom chocolate covered strawberries, decorated donuts, and so much more! We do all events ranging from baby showers and birthdays, all the way to weddings & corporate events! I’m so honored to be apart of my clients special moments time and time again. When im not decorating your dream desserts and cakes you can find me at the park with my son, brunch with my favorite people, and trying new recipes in the kitchen! I’ve loved every step of this journey. Through all the ups, downs, and everything inbetween I wouldn’t change a thing! I’m so proud to be your cake artist. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Bake Me Cupcakes!
How did you build your audience on social media?
I built my social media by always being authentic to who I am! I’ve always sticked to my niche and never steered away from it. My best word of advice to someone starting their social media presence is don’t get so caught up on what others are doing. Just because something is working for someone else, doesn’t mean it would work for you. Stay true to yourself and your brand because your time will come!
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
I live by these 3 things. I think they’re EXTREMELY important when building a reputable business. 1.Delivering exceptional customer service: Providing prompt and personalized service shows that you value your customers and their satisfaction.
2.Focus on building positive online reviews: Online reviews are trusted by potential customers and can significantly impact your reputation.
3. Maintain open communication and transparency: Be transparent in your business practices, pricing, and policies. Effective communication builds trust and credibility with your customers.
When you’re personable and transparent with who you are and your business practices, it helps clients trust that you do good business.
Contact Info:
- Website: linktr.ee/Bakemecupcakes
- Instagram: @bakemecupcakes
- Facebook: facebook.com/toribakescupcakes