WHAT DO YOU FEEL HAVE BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES SO FAR WITH RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS ? Oh boy , this one is hard to narrow down ! One significant challenge has been identifying and refining my niche . Over the course of my business journey , I ’ ve pivoted my niche at least three times . Each change was a meaningful part of my evolution and reflective of where I was at that time . At the start , I was experimenting with all sorts of cakes , which was great for skill-building but made it hard to stand out in a crowded market . In the beginning , I think it ’ s natural to try a bit of everything and explore different styles . This helps to build your skill set but it can also make it challenging to find a clear direction . I experienced this myself , feeling like a jack of all trades but master of none . It took some time to pinpoint what truly sets me apart and how to promote that unique aspect of my work . Now I ’ m excited to have found my niche in creating realistic and novelty food cakes . This focus not only gives me a sense of purpose but also allows me to showcase something distinctive and engaging . It ’ s been a fantastic pivot and I ’ m thrilled to dive deeper into this creative direction !
OUTSIDE OF CAKE DECORATING / BAKING , WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES ? I try my best to be more intentional with my downtime and refill my cup amidst my busy schedule - I can easily fall into the trap of dissociation on the internet versus implementing intentional self care . But I ’ m getting better ! Quality time with my partner and friends is incredibly fulfilling and energising for me . I also enjoy retreating into nature , whether a walk on the beach or sitting in a park - there ' s something so healing and peaceful about it . I think the tranquility of nature contrasts with the busyness of my life and my mind , which helps me to switch off and relax .
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR DESIGNS ? For me , inspiration comes from anywhere and everywhere - nature , everyday objects , ceramic art and even food itself . For my novelty and realistic food cakes , I often look at reallife food and try to replicate their textures and colours . It ’ s such a fun creative challenge to capture the essence of these foods in cake form ( and it ’ s typically the most mundane household objects that create the best texture !).