Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Erika Munoz. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Erika, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Learning the actual skills has been surprisingly swift, the challenge has been making it work as a business. Of course the learning of advanced skills is never-ending and always fun. Initially, it involved a lot of trial and error—researching recipes, tweaking them to see the outcome, and watching countless YouTube videos on decoration techniques. This craft is something you learn by doing, which resonates with me as it mirrors my approach to life. While I can read ten books or sit through long lessons on a topic, it’s only when I get hands-on that my brain truly absorbs the information. I love projects that require me to get my hands dirty; those are the ones I cherish the most.

One obstacle in learning something new was always the budget. Before the pandemic, courses were scarce and expensive, mostly conducted in person. But after 2020, everything changed. Online courses emerged across industries, and it was exhilarating to learn from so many experts and acquire skills I was genuinely passionate about.

Erika, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My entry into this industry was essentially by chance. I’m from Colombia, and while living there, I graduated as an industrial designer. I strongly identify as a creator; my mind is always buzzing with new ideas that are interesting to execute.

Seven years ago, after a couple of years of moving to Santa Clarita in California, my best friend showed me a picture of a very detailed pillow cake she wanted for her daughter. I was instantly drawn to it and said, “I can make that!” Although I had attempted cake decorating before, it never truly clicked for me until then. I took the challenge, and to my surprise, my risk paid off—I learned that it was something that I really enjoyed and was surprised with what I had achieved. From there, my curiosity about what else I could create with edible mediums grew, and I started expanding my knowledge.

I specialize in cake decoration, and I believe flavors are equally important. Harmonizing both is always the goal. A beautiful cake must also be delicious to have an impact. It first appeals to the eyes, but if it doesn’t taste good, it won’t be memorable. I want my cakes to provide a great experience for the senses, and I feel I have been able to achieve that. That’s why my clients keep coming back, even though there are many options out there.

I also create small desserts like cupcakes, cookies, and others, but making cakes is where I feel most comfortable. I enjoy the idea of a big project where many different variables come together to make sense and look beautiful.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building my reputation within the market took a considerable amount of time. Much of my growth came through word of mouth. Since my work needs to be experienced through multiple senses, it’s challenging to sell just through ads and pictures. You have to find your way in. Initially, new clients came from current clients who recommended my work or people who tried my cakes at friends’ parties. Additionally, connecting with local event planners was crucial. I found that establishing these connections and building working relationships with them was incredibly important. It wasn’t easy to reach them initially, but eventually, I succeeded in making not just connections but good friends who continue to trust me with their visions.

The main reason I have maintained a good reputation within my market is my dedication to every aspect of the process. From the conception of an idea to the selection of flavors and combinations, and every little detail that goes into decorating one of my cakes, I ensure that my clients can see and taste the effort I put into each creation. Sometimes I work harder than expected, but I am okay with that if it means seeing an idea come to life. It’s all worth it when I receive words of gratitude and encouragement from my clients. Sleepless nights and stressful situations become insignificant when I stand in front of a finished piece and see my client’s face light up.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Being a creative is a unique journey, and it can look different for everyone. What I love about my creative process is its flexibility, allowing me to go back and forth on my ideas until they feel right, sometimes even starting from scratch. Many non-creatives might struggle to understand the unpredictability and messiness of this process.

Non-creatives might also find it hard to understand the emotional investment that creatives put into their work. It’s difficult to quantify the time spent on creative endeavors, as ideas and inspiration don’t always adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule.

Receiving criticism on something you’ve poured your heart into can be tough. While constructive feedback is essential, it can be challenging for creatives to separate their work from their self-worth. Non-creatives might not grasp the delicate balance between appreciating feedback and maintaining confidence.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikakorma_sugardesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erikakormasugardesign/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/erika-korma-sugar-design-santa-clarita?osq=erika+korma