Today we’d like to introduce you to Shakina Clapp.
Hi Shakina, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
As a dedicated mom of 3 beautiful children for whom I started creating DIY treats at home in 2008, I became the go-to person for friends and family when they wanted something cute, fun & delicious for their sweet treats. I, Shakina Clapp, am the creative owner & executive sweets connoisseur of Kina’s Sweet Treats in Atlanta, GA by way of Brooklyn, NY. Since starting my company in 2018, I have introduced a contemporary & modern take on delectable desserts for a range of exclusive parties, weddings & special events throughout the US.
Kina’s Sweet Treats features elegantly curated, continually evolving selections of desserts that can be customized for any theme of choice. A self-taught sweets designer, I carefully craft each showstopping delicacy each time yielding mouth-watering dipped Oreos, candy/chocolate apple varieties, cake pops & more. My treats are just as delicious as they are beautiful. Some might say, FASHIONABLY SWEET!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think any road to entrepreneurship isn’t easy, no matter the industry. As a baker, the journey has its many challenges like perfecting recipes, managing inventory, and dealing with fluctuating ingredient costs. Additionally, building a loyal customer base and competing with larger bakeries have been ongoing struggles. However, the passion for baking and the joy of seeing satisfied customers make it all worthwhile.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
From making custom cakes & treats for special occasions to your favorite homemade desserts like Nana used to make with a modern-day twist, Kina’s Sweet Treats has something for everyone! Homemade desserts have definitely become our specialties, from cheesecakes to pound cakes or just that classic butter cake with chocolate frosting. What we are most proud of is the genuine support from our customers, who have now become family. Not only do we create amazing cakes & treats for their events, but we also get an invite to be their guest!
With so many amazing bakers/bakeries in Atlanta, GA & surrounding areas, we each have to come up with ways to set us apart, which is necessary in all industries. Our individuality comes from, as previously stated, the fact that there is something for everyone. Daily, we have over 60 cupcake flavors, 10+ cake, cheesecake & pound cake flavors & a host of other tasty treats that are made fresh for every order, including our newly added treat, the carnival classic funnel cake.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out.
For anyone starting out in the baking industry, my advice would be to make sure you have a passion for it. There will be times when a recipe doesn’t work… times when you’re up all night to complete an order… times you miss your loved ones… times you won’t see a profit because what you make off your orders has to go back into your business… DON’T GIVE UP!
It’s not an easy journey, but it’s worthwhile. Also, besides baking, which is the fun part, don’t forget to set your business up correctly. This includes your entities, license, insurance, etc. Starting out, it may seem expensive, but it’s more expensive to pay for the fine of not having it at all!
Pricing:
- Custom Cakes $150+
- Dessert Cakes $50+
- Cupcakes $35+
- Custom Treats $60+
- Daily Menu Items $2-$9
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kstandevents.info
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cakes.anonymous
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KSTEventsllc
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ksteventsllc
