Conversations with Erik Lopez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erik Lopez.  

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have been a cook/chef for the past 14 years. When Covid hit in April of 2020 I lost my job of more than 6 years. I had promised myself that once I was let go or left that job I was going to venture out to make my dream come true of making my own business. It took me 6 months to figure it out and learn how to bake since I was a line cook. I had made sweets previously but had little knowledge of baking. I practice and self-taught myself on how to bake. With trial and error, I was able to make the pastries I make today. The name of the business comes from my wonderful Isla del Encanto, Puerto Rico where my most sold pastries are originated from. I started with one farmers’ market that gave me the opportunity in Port Orange. And today we are located at 3 farmers’ Markets thru-out Volusia and Orange County. But all of this could not be made if it was not by the Grace of God and there comes our motto located on our banner and logo of Juan 3:16 which is the bible verse of John 3:16. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It is always a difficult process. First is how do you start a business. Where do you start? Then once it’s up and running where do you go. We had to find locations where they would open doors to sell from a vender that has no experience at all. Economically it has been a challenge I was out of work for 6 months my wife was the only breadwinner in the household. Thanks to her sacrifice and helping make my dream come true. And the most critical is people that will trust in you and buy your products. Also, I am only a one-person deal, and I have found difficult to work by myself. My wife will help but as she works and I have to run it alone. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a baker; I specialize in baked goods mostly pastries. My products are mostly known for our Puerto Rican pastries like our most popular item which is the quesitos that are made with puff pastry filled with cream cheese and a honey glaze, guava and cheese quesito, and our Boston Cream Pastry as well as our Mallorca (sweet bread with powder sugar on top). I am mostly known for selling these homemade pastries at farmers’ markets which is not found a lot at farmers’ markets. Mostly you can find French pastries but not Latino pastries. When people from the Island see our Product, they get nostalgic and our other fellow enjoys trying new things as well. I am most proud of getting out of my comfort zone, pushing myself to pursue my dream, and seeing everything coming to life with my own eyes. What set me apart is my products are different than others at the market I go to, and make them myself. All my products are handmade and not store-bought. My pastries are fresh and tasty. They make you feel Joy, Comfort, Nostalgic, and Happy they are sharable and once you try one you always come for more. But the most is they are made with love and once we see the face of the joy in our customers, we know we have accomplished what we wanted. It’s not only having a business my joy is making others happy thru food. 

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I in this moment don’t have a mentor or networking. I have had other farmers’ market fellows give me advice. It’s all depending what you are venturing into. I have found comfort on working solo but not opposed to in a future get-together with others. What has worked for me is being determined of what you are doing and being consistent and treated you, consumers as friends. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @l_encanto87
• Facebook: @lencantosweets