We’re looking forward to introducing you to Malina Lee. Check out our conversation below.
Malina, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Pottery! I have always loved to use my hands to create things but now that baking is a business for me and not hobby, I was looking for something else I could do that exercised the creative part of my brain but was just for fun. So I started pottery classes and it has been so awesome to learn a new skill.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello! My name is Malina Lee. I am originally from Hawai’i and moved to Texas for a teaching job an then started baking as a hobby/stress reliever from my teaching job. I officially opened Sweet Grace in July 2020. It at first started as a hobby/ side gig an then it quickly took off and turned into a full time job. Betting on myself and leaving my teaching job to pursue Sweet Grace full time was terrifying but also the best thing I ever did!
I have always loved baking but when I started decorating I quickly realized that I might have a talent! It sometimes feels like I blinked and Sweet Grace was born and took off but really it happened through hundreds and hundreds of intentional decisions, long hours, sleepless nights, and grit. Through the years Sweet Grace has continued to evolve and grow and right now we are primarily in the wedding and corporate sphere but I still love doing small custom orders for my clients other special occasions.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents! They are both incredibly hard workers and I believe I got my focus and diligence from them. My mom has owned her small business my entire life and my dad always worked multiple jobs throughout my childhood. I witnessed them both never giving up and always moving forward. Those are qualities that I absorbed and applied to my own business which I believe has attributed to its success.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You will end up exactly where you are meant to be. Listen to your heart, mind, and intuition and that will lead you exactly where you need to go.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Community, community, community! Without community you have nothing. I am Native Hawaiian and my people believe in the power of community. Whether that community is within your family, friends, or work – you need one. Within this value/belief system as I’ve grown older I have also learned that if you are not a villager you dont get to have a village. Meaning even if its not the most convenient or easy thing you need to show up for the people you care about/your community if you want them to show up for you in return. Community = Strength.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
When I am home, floating in the crystal clear ocean, with the warm sun hitting my face. There is no peace quite like it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sweetgracesa.com
- Instagram: @sweetgracedessertco
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