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

Kayla, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

The gift of Art and Baking was instilled in me since I even before I was born. I know now that it was definitely a gift from God and it is what I was meant to share with the world. I grew up doing both of them for fun. I remember baking cakes and cinnamon rolls for my family just because I wanted to try a new recipe. And the same goes for my art.

It wasn’t until I received multiple requested for baked good that were dairy-free or unique home decor paintings that were one of kind that I knew I could be the solution to these two markets.

The part that got me most excited was having the ability to give someone rest or a solution by using a skill I would have marked as a hobby.

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

My name is Kayla Patsy. Im a baker and painter living in Calabasas Ca. I absolutely love to travel and experiencing different cultures.

I became interested in art in high school. My high school art teacher, Mrs. Fradgot, was the one that really encouraged me and took extra time to pour in to me all she knew about art and gifted me numerous art supplies to start painting at home. I went on to major in Studio Art in College and to now teach art to all ages and sell my original paintings.

Baking was something I enjoyed learning about when I was a Peace Corps Volunteer in Dominica, which is located in the Caribbean. The way they viewed food and cooking was completely different from what I was used to in the states. It was more of an act of love, something used to bring people together. I fell in love. So naturally when I returned home from my service I began to experiment with different recipes to share with family and friends. I never did it for money but the money and clients came naturally. It’s truly a gift to monetize something you would do for free.

I provide freshly baked breads, cookies, and cakes. My specialty Lactation Cookies are a mom favorite to boost milk production. This wasn’t an item I started with but I saw a need with multiple moms around my church. I had the same experience with all my dairy-free baked goods. I loved sweets so much but I would breakout every time I would have diary. It would never sit well with my stomach either and I noticed many others dealt with the same issue. So, I came up with a solution and now my husband cannot get enough!
In terms of art work I provide unique paintings that will elevate any space. From landscapes to portrait paintings I have been trusted to paint the perfect paintings to compliment any room.

Im proud to be able to provide solutions to things I used to struggle with. The reason why we go through things is to be able to turn around and help those behind us. And to do it through art and baked goods makes it even sweeter.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

“Start with what you have.” I remember someone telling me this when I first started. When I first wanted to start painting and baking I use the little resources that I had. If I needed to borrow art supplies or baking tins I did until I was able to afford them for myself. Also, I can’t thank my family enough. They are the most supportive people I know. I remember coming home to a new kitchen aide mixer from my mom and dad and a mixing bowl set from my husband.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

After starting my 2 year assignment as a Peace Corps volunteer I thought it was beginning my career of teaching and international relations. I was working in the Caribbean for about 9 months but due to covid-19. My entire life was shifting and I had no idea how I was going to get back on track. At times isolation can uncover who you are and what you have to give the world and that’s what happened to me. I was able to find my love for baking and painting again and I thank God for everything he has given me in my life.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aartbykay/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@aartbykay6787

Image Credits

Jeremy Patsy