We recently connected with Natalie Flores and have shared our conversation below.

Natalie, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

When people ask me what I do for a living, it’s always a loaded question because, well, I do quite a few things! At the core of it all, I’m in the process of crafting my personal brand. My mission is to offer a unique blend of services that reflect my passion, expertise, and dedication to reshaping the food and beverage industry. I like to think of myself as a serial entrepreneur with a multi-faceted approach.

Firstly, I’m the proud owner of The Mini Baker Co., where I specialize in crafting specialty and custom miniature cakes, not just for humans but for our beloved canine companions as well. These mini cakes are all about celebrating life’s small moments, whether it’s a quiet solo celebration or an intimate gathering with loved ones. Each cake comes with a candle because why wait for birthdays to make a wish?

Beyond baking, I’m also deeply involved in business consulting. By the end of this year, I’ll be launching my digital course, “The Turn Around,” designed specifically for empowered visionary leaders within the food and beverage industry. This course tackles common challenges such as high turnover rates, low sales, and disengaged staff. Through coaching sessions, I aim to equip business owners and managers with the tools they need to boost workplace happiness, morale, and productivity. From crafting the perfect schedule to designing effective incentives and setting realistic goals, I’m here to guide them every step of the way.

My passion for effecting change in the food and beverage industry doesn’t stop there. Having experienced the industry from various angles, I’ve noticed a pervasive tendency to default to “no” when faced with challenges. But more often than not, that “no” simply signifies a lack of familiarity with alternative solutions. That’s where I come in – to be a voice for F&B employees and to facilitate the necessary changes. Whether it’s through innovative strategies, employee empowerment, or advocating for a more positive work culture, I’m dedicated to making a tangible difference.

Lastly, I’ve recently ventured into the world of voiceover acting, based in the vibrant city of LA. It’s always been a dream of mine, and I’ve had the pleasure of narrating several books for the talented author Marnie David, whose self-help books for teens resonate deeply with me. As I continue to explore this exciting field, my aim is to delve into more commercial work and, ultimately, make my mark in children’s shows or movies.

In essence, my journey encompasses a diverse range of endeavors, all united by a common thread of creativity, empowerment, and a relentless pursuit of making a meaningful impact in every facet of my work and beyond.

Natalie, 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?

For folks who may not have read about you before, can you please tell our readers about yourself.

Hello, everyone! My name is Natalie Flores, and I’m thrilled to share a bit about myself with you. I consider myself an aspiring serial entrepreneur and, most importantly, a proud mom. California is where I call home, having been born and raised here. As a second-generation Hispanic/Mexican American, my roots run deep, with my family hailing from the fields of Bakersfield and Wasco, California, where a few of them still work today.

My journey in the food and beverage industry spans a rewarding 14 years, during which I’ve worn multiple hats, including baker and manager. I honed my skills at the esteemed Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, where I pursued my passion for baking, earning both an associate’s degree in baking and a bachelor’s degree in business management and administration.

Throughout my career, I’ve always been driven by a desire to champion what’s right and to uplift others along the way. I firmly believe that we all deserve opportunities to grow and succeed together, and that ethos has guided me every step of the way.

Currently, I’m in the midst of shaping my personal brand, with a mission to offer a distinctive array of services that embody my fervor, expertise, and commitment to revolutionizing the food and beverage industry. My goal is to carve out a space where innovation thrives, where inclusivity reigns, and where every individual feels empowered to make a difference.

In essence, my journey is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and a steadfast commitment to creating positive change. I’m excited to see where this path leads and to continue making a meaningful impact along the way. Thank you for joining me on this adventure!

how you got into your industry
My journey into the culinary world traces back to my childhood, where I was captivated by the magic of cooking shows “Chocolate Treasures with Jacques Torres.” Watching Torres work his culinary wizardry sparked a deep fascination within me for the artistry and creativity of the kitchen. Even at a young age, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career as a chef.
I vividly recall a pivotal moment in the second grade when we were tasked with envisioning our future careers. While my classmates dreamed of becoming firefighters or astronauts, I proudly declared my ambition to be a chef. However, my teacher’s skeptical reaction, mistaking “chef” for “chief,” momentarily dampened my spirits. Thankfully, I had the unwavering support of my Nina, who encouraged me to pursue my passion, because she could try what I was making.
Though my academic journey hit a bump after high school, with rejection letters from colleges dampening my spirits, I figured I might as well just try to enter the culinary world. Despite lacking confidence in my culinary skills at the time, I just went for it, headfirst into the industry, because I wanted to do what Jacques did! It looked fun!
Over the years, I’ve embarked on a diverse range of culinary adventures, from working in bakeries to achieving victory on Cupcake Wars as the esteemed Stephanie Franz’s assistant. I’ve honed my craft in fine dining restaurants, managed operations at a mass production macaroon company, and curated unforgettable experiences at a craft beer and wine bar that celebrates local talent and community spirit.
The challenges of managing a brewery amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic tested my resilience and adaptability, yet each twist and turn in my journey has only fueled my determination to create something truly unique. Every experience, whether good or bad, has contributed to the evolution of my personal brand and fueled my passion for innovation and excellence in the culinary world.
In essence, my journey into the culinary industry has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but through it all, I’ve emerged stronger, more resilient, and more committed than ever to realizing my vision and making a lasting impact in the culinary landscape.

Business
Business is an intriguing puzzle to me – it’s complex yet surprisingly simple, and it’s intertwined with every aspect of our lives. People often wonder why I’m involved in so many different projects at once. Honestly, sometimes even I question it. But then I remember that I’m not alone in this. Many of us are juggling multiple passions and projects, and it’s not about doing everything simultaneously; it’s about giving each venture the attention and care it deserves.

Each of my projects has its own rhythm and flow, its own highs and lows. And that’s what allows me to focus on each one as needed. It’s not about spreading myself thin; it’s about understanding the unique needs of each endeavor and nurturing it accordingly.

Ultimately, my dream is to be an independent business owner, surrounded by a team that shares my vision of helping other businesses thrive. Whether I’m baking cakes for small celebrations, including our furry friends, or lending my voice to various projects through voiceover work, I want to spend my time doing things that genuinely bring me joy.

And for me, that joy comes from following my passions and dreams, from planning and dreaming big, and from making a positive impact wherever I can. It’s about building a career that feels authentic and fulfilling, one that reflects who I am and what I believe in.

So yes, I may be involved in a lot of different things, but each one is a piece of the puzzle that makes up who I am and what I’m passionate about. And that’s what makes it all worth it.

Discipline
At this juncture in my life, I find myself straddling different realms, but I’m confident that the work I’m putting in will lead me to where I aspire to be. My focus right now is on crafting a life and schedule that not only aligns with my aspirations but also accommodates the needs of my family. It’s about finding that delicate balance between pursuing my dreams and being present for those who matter most to me. That’s the ultimate goal, and I’m steadfast in my belief that I can achieve it.

What keeps me going, what fuels my determination even on the toughest days, is my daughter. She’s my biggest inspiration, my driving force. As she observes me navigating life’s ups and downs, I see it as my responsibility to not only lead by example but also to empower her to navigate her own journey with resilience and grace. I want to instill in her the understanding that life is full of choices, and while we may encounter obstacles along the way, we always have the power to choose how we respond.

For me, it’s about being her guiding light, showing her that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance. It’s about teaching her to embrace life fully – to be aware, to be alert, to shine brightly – and to recognize that while challenges may arise, they should never dim her spirit or deter her from pursuing her dreams. Ultimately, I want her to understand that she has the power to shape her own destiny, and I’m committed to being there every step of the way, showing her the way forward with unwavering love and support.

Services
In 2023, I decided to consolidate my wealth of experience into two ventures: The Mini Baker Co., offering mini cakes for both people and their furry companions, and The Turn Around, a Digital Course for Empowered Visionary Leaders. This course aims to elevate workplace happiness, morale, and productivity in three transformative steps.

what type of products
When it comes to my products, I aim to offer a diverse range that reflects my passion for creativity and innovation. Let’s break it down:

Voiceover: My voiceover services are designed to cater to a wide audience, showcasing a versatile vocal range that can transition seamlessly from youthful and energetic to soothing and sophisticated. Whether it’s commercials, narration, or character work, I bring a dynamic quality to every project I undertake.

Digital Course: My digital course is a comprehensive resource aimed at empowering visionary leaders within the food and beverage industry. It’s customizable to address the unique growth concerns of each business, offering a range of online courses that can be purchased individually. Alternatively, businesses can opt for an all-inclusive package, which includes personalized one-on-one consulting sessions with me. It’s all about providing the tools and insights needed to foster success and drive meaningful change.

Mini Cakes: Ah, my beloved mini cakes! These delightful treats come in two sizes, catering to both humans and our furry friends. For people, there are the adorable 3×3 mini cakes, perfect for indulging alone or sharing with a loved one. They also make charming table centerpieces for special occasions. Then, there’s the 4″ fiesta cake, ideal for parties of 6-10 people – just the right amount of sweetness to go around.

For our canine companions, I offer equally delightful options. There’s the Big Pup 4″ dog-safe cake, lovingly decorated with natural, healthy ingredients. And for the smaller pups, there’s the mini pupcake box set, featuring four perfectly portioned mini cupcakes.

Excitingly, I’ll soon be launching premade cake decorating box sets for parties, adding an interactive element to celebrations. Whether you choose to display them for your guests or opt for a guided decorating session led by yours truly, the goal remains the same: to spread joy and happiness with every slice and every bite.

In essence, my products are a reflection of my commitment to bringing joy and positivity into the world. Through creativity, innovation, and a whole lot of heart, I’m on a mission to make every moment a little sweeter and every occasion a little brighter.

what you think sets you apart from others
What truly sets me apart is my genuine understanding of the impermanence of the services I offer. While building lasting connections with clients is important to me, I also acknowledge the ebb and flow of life. Life is unpredictable, filled with twists and turns that can alter our paths in an instant.
In those moments of uncertainty, it’s the small joys, the fleeting moments of happiness, that often resonate the most. I’ve come to appreciate the significance of these simple yet profound experiences – the shared laughter over a slice of cake, the warmth of companionship during a celebration, the comfort found in a thoughtful gesture.
So, if a client isn’t able to order from me regularly, I understand. Life is busy, priorities shift, and circumstances change. But that doesn’t diminish the value of those moments we’ve shared together. Each interaction, no matter how brief, is an opportunity to make a positive impact, to create a cherished memory that lingers long after the cake has been enjoyed.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

The food and beverage industry is a whirlwind, to say the least. It’s a world of high demand, sky-high expectations, and relentless pressure – a constant push to keep up, or risk falling behind. Pay inequality and the expectation to “wear multiple hats” often serve as euphemisms for a lack of proper time management within companies. It’s a tough environment, one that I became intimately familiar with after experiencing a tragic loss almost two years ago. As a self-professed workaholic, I dedicated myself to grueling 12 to 16-hour shifts, sometimes back-to-back, sacrificing precious moments of life along the way. It was during my journey into management that I began to see the inner workings of the industry more clearly. I realized that many of the issues plaguing the businesses I worked for stemmed from a fundamental lack of communication and feedback within the company.
When I lost my job, it was a wake-up call. I had poured my heart and soul into my work, operating with a level of dedication and pride as if the business were my own. But in the end, I found myself with nothing to show for it. It was a painful realization, one that left me grappling with PTSD and severe anxiety and depression in the aftermath.
Navigating the workforce after such a setback was daunting, to say the least. But just as I encourage my daughter to forge her own path in life, I knew that it was up to me to chart a new course forward. That’s what ultimately drove me to become an entrepreneur – the desire to build something of my own, something that not only serves others but also provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment for myself.
I know so many people, myself included, who get lost in the work or worse, feel like they have to bend their lives to fit a job. But the reality is, we can break free from those long hours. It’s all about planning, communication, and flexibility for both employees and the company. By offering different schedule structures that prioritize growth and transparency, we can create positive change. I’m sure some may scoff at the idea, but I’m here to show you that this type of change is not only possible but necessary. And I’m committed to leading the way.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

Cake has always been my passion project, weaving in and out of my life alongside other endeavors. Initially, I dabbled in creating grandiose cakes for big events, pouring my heart into each creation. Yet, despite their magnificence, I found myself wrestling with inner turmoil. The pressure to deliver perfection for every client weighed heavily on me.

It was during this time that Bobby, my mentor, offered me a gem of wisdom that still resonates deeply: “Find your focus.” Taking his advice to heart, I embarked on a journey of introspection. As I pondered my purpose, I couldn’t ignore the glaring issue of food waste plaguing the industry. Simultaneously, I discovered joy in the simplicity of celebrating life’s small victories.

Thus, the concept of mini cakes was born. Instead of drowning in excess, I tailored each creation to suit the occasion, minimizing waste while maximizing delight. It was a small shift in perspective that transformed not only my business but also my mindset.

With each cake, I gained more than just culinary expertise; I cultivated resilience, confidence, and an unyielding drive to make a difference. The decision to take the leap into full-time entrepreneurship wasn’t easy. Yet, fueled by passion and armed with a newfound sense of purpose, I embraced the challenge head-on.

Setting milestones became my compass, guiding me through the unpredictable terrain of entrepreneurship. But what truly propelled me forward was the unwavering support of my community. Collaboration, rather than competition, became my mantra. Together, we forged ahead, each success a testament to the power of collective effort.

Today, as I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded that entrepreneurship is more than just a career; it’s a deeply personal quest for meaning and impact. Whether through crafting cakes or advocating for change in the food industry, my mission remains unchanged: to spread joy, reduce waste, and leave a lasting legacy of positivity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.theminibakerco.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_mini_baker_co/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553478175123
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-mini-baker-co/?viewAsMember=true
• Other: Digital Course https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553154419634 Voiceover profile: https://www.backstage.com/u/natalie-flores/?editing=1

Image Credits
Ari Jayd and David Vera