We were lucky to catch up with Shenitra Landry recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Shenitra, thanks for joining us today. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

If I could go back in time, I would have definitely started my baking business earlier in life. I started baking as a business about 8 years ago. Prior to that I would bake here and there and sell cakes and cupcakes to friends/co-workers. Back then it was more so a hobby vs a business and what I would charge would basically cover supplies only. I do feel like if I had the business mentality back then, I would be further along than I am now. However I also feel like everything happens in due time.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am currently a home-based baker out of Arlington TX, originally from Shreveport LA. I provide custom cakes, treats and other desserts. I started baking as a hobby, after my grandmother taught me how to bake my favorite pound cake when I was 24 yrs old. Before that I never had a desire to bake. I have to give credit to my grandmother , because she uncovered a gift that I never knew I had After baking my first pound cake, I started to explore different cake recipes and dessert recipes. Baking became a stress reliever. The more I baked, the more it became an outlet for me. What sets me apart from other bakers is my customer service and the energy I put into every order. Every order that I create, is created as if I’m baking for family. If I’m not satisfied with the order, it won’t leave my door, I’ll start over until I feel like it perfect. I’m most proud of the creative growth I’ve had over the years. As I’ve mastered baking, I then ventured into cake decorating. Keeping with the tradition grandmother started with me, my 16 yr old daughter also bakes and my 14 yr old son assists with cake designs. Other than my creative growth I’m also extremely proud to share this gift with my children.

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

The best source of new clients have been by word of mouth. I have the best clients and they usually refer their friends/family/co-workers. There have been instances where people have reached out based on trying my products at an event they attended and decided to inquire about my services.

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

My customer service and the quality of my products.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulfuldishesanddesserts?igsh=MW43OHhrZWxxd2JpMg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulfuldishes2018?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits

Shenitra Landry