Meet
Keisha Cakes
THE BEST CAKES I HAVE EVER TASTED!
Let me tell you how I found out about Keisha Cakes...I got married...The end. lol But in all seriousness, Keisha was recommended to us when my wife and I were looking for a baker to make our wedding cake. We found a design we liked and she did a phenomenal job creating our vision. She even delivered the cake to our wedding venue which was very helpful. Im excited to introduce Keisha Gaines of Keisha Cakes! Check out her interview below!
Note* All pictures were provided by Keisha Cakes.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up in Lauderdale Lakes Florida with my siblings and parents of Jamaican descent. I was always interested in video production growing up, so I went to schools that specialized in that. I attended the University of Florida and then transferred to The Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale. I received my degree in Video Production there and went on to work in the field, on commercials and for a movie editing company for over 6 years. I found my passion for cakes while working at that job and later left it to pursue my cakes as a full-time business.
How did Keisha Cakes start? Did you always know this is what you wanted to do?
My interest in baking and decorating began when I saw the cake decorating class offered at Michael’s craft store. I thought it would be a fun activity to do since I had no hobbies and time on my hands. As I worked on my projects for the classes I would share pictures of them on my Facebook page. When my work started to improve my friends would ask if they could buy one. More and more people would ask so that’s when I thought maybe I can turn this hobby into a business. I always thought I would work in the video production field since high school, but since I started creating cakes I definitely found my real passion.
What kind of cakes can you make and what are your favorite?
I can create all kinds of cakes. I’ve made so many types, but some popular ones are traditional cakes, large wedding cakes to 3D realistic looking cakes. I don’t have a particular cake that is my favorite to make but I do like the challenge of a theme or design I haven’t done before. Keeps my work interesting.
What were some of the challenges you experienced when you first started Keisha Cakes?
Some challenges that I experienced when I first started the business is a lack of profit. At least enough profit to pay myself. The money I made went right back into the business to buy more supplies. I have not taken a business loan for anything, so Keisha Cakes has paid for all the necessary supplies, equipment and bills associated with the business.
What tips can you give to those who are interested in starting their own business?
It’s not all unicorns and rainbows. You have to really want this and work hard consistently to make your business a success. There were many times it gets hard but never give up. Take a breather and don’t forget to rest. Having your own business now means all of the responsibilities and costs are on you. There will be overhead and some unexpected costs that come up when started your business. Try to have a savings account that you can tap into when times get hard. As time goes on you learn and get better with every aspect as long as you’re willing to learn and grow. And finally seek advice from other business owners in your field that can help you by avoiding mistakes that they made in their journey.
What’s the secret to keeping wedding cakes symmetrical?
The secret is a lot of patience, practice and having the right tools to help. It takes time to make sure all the edges are straight.
You were on a baking show on Netflix, can you share what that experience was like? Were you nervous or excited?
My time on Sugar Rush was an adventure! It was scary and exciting all at the same time. To work under pressure like that, in a new kitchen, with someone I haven’t worked with before, and to have the cameras all over was crazy. Not to mention having to have your creations judged by industry professionals. It was an experience of a lifetime and I’m glad that I did it. I faced major fears by doing a competition (my first one) and being on TV.
What is the most challenging cake to make?
The most challenging cakes to make are the 3D cakes. To look at an item and try to carve the cake to make it look just like it is pretty difficult. And believe it or not the simple plain cakes with no décor. It’s a lot of pressure to make sure it’s perfect because there is nothing, I can add to hide any imperfections.
What is the most important process in making a cake?
The most important process in making a cake is making sure the foundation of it is good before assembling the tiers. When constructing the layers and frosting I have to make sure that it’s straight before stacking it onto another cake.
Where do you see Keisha Cakes in 5-10 years?
I hope to still be in business Lord willing. I don’t take for granted the blessing it is to have been doing this for 10 years now and if I make it to see another 10 years. I hope to have a cake studio where customers could come in see examples of my work and have consultations. In a couple of years, I would like to hire a team of employees to help my business grow.
How can someone set up a consultation? Do you travel?
I’m a home-based business so most of the consultations are through emails and phone calls. The best way to ask any questions is to email me at keisha.cakes@gmail.com. To receive a quote, fill out the form on my website and I will send you back a quote. I only offer cake deliveries to Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
What are you most grateful for as a business owner?
I am most grateful that I get to do my passion for a living.
