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

Alright, Joanna thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

First of all ,it takes hard work and dedication. It involves putting in the necessary time and efford to achieve your goals.

Then, Passion and Motivation!
Having a genuine passion for what you do and being motivated to persue your dreams ,can greatly contribute to your success.When you are passionate about your work,it becomes easier to stay committed and overcome challenges.

and last but don’t least,Building Relatioships and Collaborations.
Successis not solely dependenton individual effort.Building strong relatioships ,networking,and collaborating with others can open up opportunities,provide support,and enhance overall success

Joanna, 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?

“Kalimera! Hello, everyone! My name is Joanna Asvesta, and I am proud to be a Greek woman sharing the rich flavors of my homeland through traditional Greek desserts and savory pies. Today, I am excited to tell you more about myself and my passion for bringing authentic Greek flavors to the world.

Growing up in Greece, I was surrounded by the sights, sounds, and aromas of Greek cuisine. From the sweet aroma of freshly baked pastries to the hearty flavors of traditional pies, food was an integral part of my upbringing. I learned the art of baking from my grandmother, who passed down generations-old recipes and techniques that have been cherished in our family for years.

Now, as I embark on a new journey in Las Vegas, I am thrilled to share the authentic taste of Greece with this vibrant city. My mission is to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of life and culture.

In my bakery, you will find a wide array of traditional Greek desserts that are made with love and a touch of nostalgia. From classic favorites like baklava and galaktoboureko to lesser-known gems like melomakarona and kourabiedes, each bite is a journey to the bustling streets of Athens or the charming villages of the Greek islands.

But my passion doesn’t stop at sweet treats. I also specialize in creating mouthwatering savory pies that are a staple in Greek cuisine. Whether it’s spanakopita, tiropita, or my personal twist on the traditional recipe, I take pride in using the finest ingredients and perfecting the balance of flavors in every bite.

What sets my bakery apart is not only the authenticity of the recipes but also the commitment to quality and craftsmanship. I source the freshest ingredients, including local produce and imported Greek products, to ensure that each creation is a true reflection of Greek culinary traditions.

As I bring the flavors of Greece to Las Vegas, I hope to not only satisfy your taste buds but also ignite your curiosity about Greek culture and traditions. Through my desserts and savory pies, I aim to create a connection between people and the rich history and heritage that Greek cuisine represents.

I am truly grateful for the warm welcome I have received from the Las Vegas community, and I look forward to sharing my passion with all of you. I invite you to visit my bakery, to join us in our events ,indulge in the flavors of Greece, and join me in celebrating the joy that comes from sharing food, stories, and a little piece of Greece.

Efcharisto! Thank you for allowing me to introduce myself and my love for traditional Greek desserts and savory pies. Together, let’s embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to the beautiful land of Greece. Opa!”

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The best source of new clients for my bakery has been a combination of the farmers market and events in casinos. Participating in the farmers market has provided me with a wonderful ”platform” to showcase my traditional Greek desserts and savory pies to a diverse and food-loving community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with people who appreciate locally sourced, artisanal products and are eager to explore different culinary experiences.

Additionally, collaborating with events in casinos has been a game-changer for my business. These events attract a wide range of visitors, including tourists and locals looking for unique dining experiences. By offering my authentic Greek treats in the lively atmosphere of a casino, I’ve been able to introduce my bakery to a whole new audience and establish a strong presence in the Las Vegas culinary scene.

Both the farmers market and events in casinos have allowed me to not only showcase my products but also engage directly with customers, share the story behind each creation, and build relationships based on a shared love for Greek cuisine. The opportunity to interact with people in these settings has been invaluable in growing my client base and creating a loyal customer following.

I am incredibly grateful for the support and enthusiasm that the farmers market and events in casinos have generated for my bakery. They have provided me with a ”space” to share my passion, connect with the community, and spread the joy of traditional Greek desserts and savory pies. I look forward to continuing to participate in these events and explore new avenues to reach even more people who appreciate the flavors of Greece.”

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

One book that has had a significant impact on my management and entrepreneurial thinking is ‘Who Moved My Cheese?’ by Spencer Johnson. This book is a powerful and insightful parable that explores the importance of adapting to change and embracing it as an opportunity for growth.

In ‘Who Moved My Cheese?’, Johnson uses a simple story about two mice and two little people who encounter unexpected changes in their cheese supply. Through this story, the author highlights the different ways individuals respond to change and the consequences of their choices. The book emphasizes the importance of being proactive, flexible, and open-minded in the face of uncertainty and challenges.

One of the key lessons I took from this book is the need to let go of the fear of change and instead embrace it as a natural part of life and business. It taught me the importance of being agile and willing to explore new possibilities, even if they initially seem uncomfortable or unfamiliar. ‘Who Moved My Cheese?’ reminded me that change is inevitable, and by embracing it, we can uncover new opportunities and reach greater heights of success.

Furthermore, the book encourages a mindset of continuous learning and self-improvement. It emphasizes the importance of staying curious, adapting to new circumstances, and taking proactive steps to navigate through challenges. It reminded me that as an entrepreneur, I need to be constantly searching for new ways to innovate and stay ahead in a rapidly changing business environment.

Overall, ‘Who Moved My Cheese?’ has been a valuable resource that has shaped my management and entrepreneurial philosophy. It has taught me to embrace change, remain adaptable, and approach challenges with a positive and proactive mindset. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for inspiration and guidance in navigating the ever-changing landscape of business and entrepreneurship

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @kalimeragreekbakery.com
• Facebook: @kalimeragreekbakery.com
• Yelp: Kalimera Greek Bakery