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

Hi Latoya, thanks for joining us today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

My story begins when one day I wanted chocolate covered strawberries, so I decided I would make my own. I had no clue as to what I was doing because I had never tried it before. So, I tried it and they didn’t come out all pretty as I expected but I posted a picture to Facebook and of course people thought they were pretty but they really weren’t because my drizzle was horrible. People started to inquire after I made another batch and with that batch I added decorations. From there it kind of just took off. People actually started to order. I started to execute and as time went on my work got better. I started to try other things such as chocolate covered Oreos and rice krispies treats. So, here I am today still at it and that’s how Shamanda’s Treats was birthed

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

I’m a full time medical assistant but Shamanda’s Treats is my small business. As I stated before I got into the business by literally deciding to dip myself some chocolate covered strawberries. What sets me apart is my ability to create treats that will leave the customer speechless. I’m sort of a perfectionist when it comes to making my treats. I’m most proud of the creativity I put into each order. I want people to know that I will always go the extra mile to make sure their treats are exactly what they wanted.

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

There has been a time where I had to put my small business on hold just to get myself together. Sometimes when business is slow, it can sometimes make you feel as if it’s not worth it and then God gently reminds you that He gave you the gift so use it.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Word of mouth has helped build my clientele as well as social media marketing. When people can actually see you work, it gives them that go that you are that person to bring their treats to life

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Shamandas_Treats
• Facebook: Shamanda’s Treats