Like many working parents, Laura Cerra from Cakes By Laura started her cake business so that she could produce an income whilst working from home and, have flexibility around work and family. When first starting out Laura sought some advice from a mentor - a great idea for any business start-up - some of which she has kindly shared here. Such sound advice!
1. How did your sweets business or journey begin?
My sweet journey was born out of a need to provide for my family whilst being a stay at home Mum with 3 small children. After having owned a café when I was 23 and completing the Bakers Delight Franchise course I realised that this was not the right direction for me with 3 small children. So I registered my home kitchen with the council and registered a business name. Doing things correctly has always been paramount for me. Even though I started working from home it was always done right.
2. What has starting your own business meant you?
Starting my own business means a lot to me, it has given me the freedom to work as much or as little as I need, and also allows me creative freedom when designing cakes, all while still being able to look after my family.
3. What have been/are the biggest challenges you face(d) in regard to starting/building/maintaining your business?
The biggest challenge has always been to maintain a work-life balance. It is quite easy to continue to work in your business rather than on your business. Remembering that free cake for friends and family is not the way to go, as everyone is a friend and everyone is family and it is very easy to find yourself making lots of free cakes. Set some rules and guidelines and stick to them.
4. What do you feel are the benefits of using edible images?
The benefits of using edible images are many, characters will look the way they are supposed to, company logos are exact and are always impressive, and the amount of time saved is super important. Being efficient is key.
