Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Flores.
Hi Stephanie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always liked baking since I was a kid, but it wasn’t until about seven years ago that I decided to go to school to learn and expand my craft. Before that began, I joined the United States Marine Corps straight out of high school, where I served from 2007 to 2012. I loved serving my country and I am a very proud veteran and Marine. While I loved it, I still had my passion to continue baking. I began studying at Valencia College, where I completed my A.S degree in Criminal Justice and an A.A before finally switching over and beginning the baking and pastry courses. I continued baking, but I wasn’t satisfied working a 9-5, so I decided to start up my business in April of 2018. It started off slow as any new business, but over the years it has built up successfully with many clientele. Baking for others is a big part of me because I love giving people something that is beautiful and delicious. I put my everything into my business and I do it all alone with help from my husband and my girls. My family has supported me tremendously through all of it and they are the ones who get to approve of my new creations.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In the beginning, it wasn’t all fun and games because I had to learn to manage a business and a family full time. I had lots of anxiety and sleepless nights, but over time I found my rhythm and I now I can crank out many orders at a time. Another big struggle was when COVID hit and business completely hit the ground. I went almost a whole year with little to no income from my business due to the pandemic and as a newer small business, there wasn’t much help out there for me.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My work consists of making custom cakes and treats for those seeking themed baked goods for their events. My specialty though has got to be doing cakes. I love being able to take an idea and create a beautiful and edible work of art for my clients. What sets me apart from others is that I’m not afraid to take a chance on a new design or a new technique if I have not done it before. I never set limits on myself because I believe in my artistic abilities when it comes to creating beautiful cakes. I’m most proud of my growth as a cake decorator. I’ll admit it wasn’t all pretty before, but with lots of practice my creations are cleaner, neater and more diverse.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
As a kid, I was very adventurous and curious. I loved all things creative whether if it was dancing, painting, building things from imagination, but most importantly baking. I was a shy kid, but only when you first met me because I was very outgoing and bubbly once you got to know me. I grew up in a very family and religiously oriented home. My parents instilled morals and values in us and they always believed we could be successful in whatever we chose to be, as long as we put in the work and loved what we did.
Contact Info:
- Email: Littlelanisweets@yahoo.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/littlelanisweets
- Facebook: Facebook.com/littlelanisweets
Image Credits
Stephanie Flores
