We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Daunyel Clayton. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Daunyel below.

Alright, Daunyel thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Has Covid resulted in any major changes to your business model?

We’re all aware of how challenging COVID was for everyone. My heart truly goes out to all those who suffered losses during that time. I found out I was pregnant during COVID, right when things were getting uncertain. I started my business officially in March 2019, and then, by March 2020, we were all in quarantine. While on maternity leave, I kept my mind on my business, always thinking about its future. As the world reopened, everyone became much more cautious about hygiene and social distancing. I initiated a rebranding effort, pivoting to package my desserts in prepackaged, airtight jars. This innovation not only offered customers a delectable treat on the go but also minimized the risk of germ transmission. No more slicing cakes—just grab and enjoy, hassle-free.

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

My name is Daunyel Clayton, and I’m the proud owner of Sweets Cakes & Treats, your go-to destination for delicious desserts! At Sweets Cakes and Treats, we specialize in crafting a variety of comfort desserts, custom treats, and cake jars guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, grabbing a quick indulgence, or looking for a unique gift, we’re here to make your dessert experience unforgettable!

Originally from Detroit, Michigan, I’m a 33-year-old wife to my high school sweetheart and a mother to my wonderful 3-year-old daughter. In 2015, we made the move to Tucson, AZ, where we’ve built a beautiful life, family, and business over the past 8 years. I believe what sets me apart is my passion for creativity and innovative thinking. Whether it’s solving complex problems or brainstorming fresh ideas, I’m always pushing boundaries and seeking out new possibilities to deliver unique and impactful results.

I’ve always been a big foodie and have a passion for cooking and baking. Collecting recipes and baking from scratch has been a hobby of mine for years. What started as sharing leftover baked goods with friends, family, and coworkers eventually turned into receiving orders and words of encouragement to start selling and open a business. I owe a huge thanks to my husband, family, and friends for motivating and supporting me to take this leap of faith. Despite facing challenges like COVID, pregnancy, and managing lupus, I remained determined to see my entrepreneurial journey through. I want my clients to know that I’m dedicated to growth and learning, always striving to better serve them.

Sweets Cakes and Treats isn’t just a business; it’s a labor of love born from my passion for baking and my devotion to family. As a first-generation business owner alongside my brother, we’re working hard to break generational curses and honor our mom’s memory while building a legacy for our children. Our hope is that one day, they’ll carry on these legacies for generations to come.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

I met my husband during high school, and he has always been passionate about real estate and entrepreneurship. During that time, he introduced me to a book called “Rich Dad, Poor Dad.” This book contrasts the financial philosophies of two fathers: the “Rich Dad,” who achieved wealth through entrepreneurship and smart investing, and the “Poor Dad,” who worked hard but struggled financially. “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” imparts valuable lessons on financial education, passive income, risk management, leveraging resources, controlling expenses, debt management, and personal growth. Its mission is to improve the financial well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

Let’s move on to buying businesses – can you talk to us about your experience with business acquisitions?

I came close to purchasing a business, but ultimately it didn’t happen. I participated in a 10-week food startup class offered by the non-profit organization “Start Up Tucson,” which was filled with aspiring food entrepreneurs eager to learn and develop their businesses. It was an invaluable experience, and I highly recommend it.

During this time, I learned about a cookie business opportunity from the husband of one of the facilitators. He had acquired the business a few years prior but was now looking to sell due to other commitments. After initially hesitating, I reached out to him via email to set up a meeting. We had two discussions to talk about the financials, logistics, and other details.

While my husband had reservations about the numbers, I was enthusiastic about the opportunity. Acquiring a business was something I had on my future goals list, and I saw it as a way to enhance and expand my cake business. However, circumstances changed when I was laid off from my job, and after careful consideration, my husband and I decided that investing in the cookie business wouldn’t be beneficial for us at that time.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sweetscakesandtreats.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetscakesandtreats/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetscakesandtreats
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daunyel-clayton-53a60660/
• Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/home/7GfwisthOiLZHQBE8Andvw
• Other: google: Sweets Cakes & Treats [email protected]