We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful River Jax. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with River below.

River, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

I’ve been out publicly since 2018 as someone who is non-binary and trans. I was incredibly thankful for the resources out there for Trans folks but still felt there needed to be more done. Baking was always a form of healing to me not only spiritually but mentally as well and I aim to make sure every Black trans person that is sponsored by donors feels that love. I always was taught to support one another, share resources and help to be of community and I’m so incredibly grateful for those that have supported not only my shop but my mission to bring community to the most isolated socially.

Specifically for Black Trans individuals because within those marginalizations you are often left out or don’t have the opportunity to grow older. And I thought if I can do that with just sending baked goods to a Black Trans kid or elder for free to brighten their day, why wouldn’t I?

Despite the economic, discrimination, and social isolation challenges we face I dedicate time to support fellow Black trans folks and bridge the gap between allyship to ensure Black trans folks have the same access to resources and packages that make them smile and also caters to any dietary modifications they might need as well free of charge.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a Black Trans Community Organizer. Artist & Baker I got into my industry because I always had a love for creating eclectic vibrant abstract artwork. I always had a passion for cooking and food decided to start my own bakery in 2021.

This has been such a healing but also scary path to go into being a freelance artist and home Baker I create everything from From quirky ramen jewelry dishes, color portrait paintings and even decorative altar pieces and as well as delicious decadent baked goods. I think what sets me apart from others shops is my style of art and use of color in my artwork. When it comes to my baking my techniques and flavor profiles that are bakery inspired but at an accessible cost for everyone.

What I’m most proud of is my Project that I run with my bakery to send sponsored baked goods to Black Trans folks of all ages, I offer baked goods at no cost to Black Trans individuals and adjust any of my recipes for their dietary needs and accommodations. Each package I send is made with love to not only my Black Trans Siblings but as well as my customers and long-term supporters.

I love getting emails or tags on social media about how my packages brightened their day or how my baked goods remind them of a their late grandparents that would bake for them. Knowing that I’m doing the community work of not only giving back to my community but also providing some healing brings me so much gratitude.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of finding new clients for me has been utilizing word of mouth from friends and long term supporters shouting my bakery or art shop out. A lot of my customers and clients have came from friends simply posting on social media ”Hey I ordered this from River” It’s helped my business grow so much and helped me expand my shop as well.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

For me utilizing word of mouth and consistent social media posting. Creating relatable content that’ll create engagement and have people show interest in what else I have to offer to fulfill a need or solve a problem they have.

Contact Info:

• Website: RiverLJax.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/riverlangstonj
• Facebook: Facebook.com/RiverLJax
• Twitter: twitter.com/riverljax