We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amya Harvey a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Amya, appreciate you joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

Every popup event or market that I sign up for is a risk being taken. Preparing for these opportunities can be time-consuming and financial investment when buying ingredients and supplies. There is no guarantee that you will sell everything or make a profit, but that’s where your other motivators come into play. It doesn’t have to be all about the money, there is a risk of making no profit. But at least you gained a few more followers, gave out business cards, and got your name out there. Anything worth obtaining calls for sacrifice, such as sacrificing time and risking not gaining any profit. I have had experiences where I did not make much profit, but I took the risk because there are still other things that may be gained from an opportunity other than money. You become content with the possibility of adverse outcomes and such incredible outcomes, like meeting someone who will eventually become a loyal client or someone who just always supports your social media pages.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My business is distinctive in that not many people began their business selling treats in their middle school hallway. I’ve had the opportunity to grow alongside my business which indeed allowed me to have a deeper appreciation for it and how far it has come. Looking back at when I began my business motivates me to continue growing and improving my craft while keeping up with nursing school. I have maintained my baking business through perseverance and faith in God, trusting that he will be with me and help me prosper in every aspect. I make a wide range of desserts, such as custom cakes, cheesecakes, macarons, and party treats, such as chocolate-covered pretzel rods, rice krispies, and strawberries. One thing I value in my baking business is the variety of treats. I always want to provide something picture worthy and tasty for clients to enjoy regardless of small or large budgets, you are still able to get something satisfying. I can do things based on simplicity or complexity so that there are treats for any occasion.
I’ve learned so much about people and how important it is to support one another as human beings by having this business of mine. I’ve been taught so much by other business owners, family, and friends and I’m genuinely thankful for the help in continuing to grow my business.

Have you ever had to pivot?

My baking business has not been a straight path; there have been ups and downs and obstacles thrown my way. I had to pivot around my original business plans as I began nursing school. My top priority is graduating with my BSN; however, I am still focusing on my baking craft. Overall, I have shifted my life schedule for these two priorities so that I succeed to the best of my ability in nursing school but also grow in my baking skills, trying new things, and putting out excellent products for others to share and enjoy.

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

Yes! My business did begin as a middle/high school side hustle just for fun. I began selling snacks in the school hallways and one day decided to try baking. The first product I started out with was cakepops, and everyone in school LOVED them. Not only was I selling out at school everyday, but people began to request them in large quantities and share with others outside of school. This is when I realized I could do more than just sell my treats in the school hallways so I made a business instagram page. I advertised, began taking orders and have kept growing since. I quickly grew a strong interest in how I can show my creativity and try new things to expand my menu. After much practice and repetition I eventually had my first popup shop and got involved in markets. This was a great way to reach people in other parts of Houston and spread my brand. After a few markets I started getting emails for interviews and magazine features which I found to be another great opportunity to get my name out there. I am now continuing to better my techniques and try new things.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/treatzbymya?fbclid=PAAabLvPO5y3iifj3CeimLDy7g7GKveYQoQsjrp6kmjs_969yhFHgh9I7ix5A_aem_AcKUL1aIR_1J2gA_ePH5hylSFEUPnk2zgB1YjKPdWn2VidCoilBOWAeUoT3972wQC_8
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treatzbymya/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarah.huntsman.71?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Personal Photo Taken By Madison Miller