We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Aileen Henry Abatecola. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Aileen below.
Hi Aileen, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
Growing up, my parents made sure to emphasize the importance of responsibility and putting in work for the things we wanted. We never had things just handed to us, we had to earn them. As a kid this was sometimes frustrating, especially when it felt that others around me were just getting things handed. As I’ve gotten older, I’m so grateful my parents instilled this within me. It’s not only been a big pillar in how I live my life but for my business as well. In order to succeed, I need to put in those late nights, put in the effort, and focus on the quality of my baked goods.
A fun fact: My first job was actually at 10. I would beg my grandma to let me help her with her house cleaning business. I don’t know why, but I found it enjoyable, and getting paid was just a nice bonus.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My business is called Sweet Leen’s Cakes! I offer customized buttercream cakes and cupcakes within the Bay Area!
Baking has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. A few years ago, my little cousin couldn’t have a birthday party because of Covid, so I decided to make her a cake so she could still feel special. After that, it was my next cousin’s birthday, and I made a cake for them too, and then another for the next one. I quickly realized how much joy this brought me, and I loved the challenge of trying to create something even better each time. I started sharing my cakes online, and the support from friends and family was so encouraging, that it inspired me to launch my own official cake page! That’s how Sweet Leen’s Cakes came to life. Fast forward two years, and I never thought I’d be doing this full-time. Every day, I feel so grateful that people choose me to be a part of their special celebrations.
I specialize in Vintage style cakes. The frills, bows, sparkles, and vibrant colors inspire me! When my clients give me the freedom to unleash my creativity and trust me to craft something stunning for them I always feel honored. As an artist, its one of the biggest compliments we can receive and when I do my best work!
Available for preorder now is Sweet Leen’s Cakes Valentines Shop! This year, I have an assortment of choices for you to pick from that will cause your valentines heart to flutter 💘
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three of the most significant lessons I’ve picked up on my journey is that persistence is key, comparison is the thief of joy, and it’s important to remain humble.
I really want to stress the idea that comparison can rob us of our joy. Regardless of where you find yourself in life, be it in school, at work, or pursuing a hobby, it’s crucial to recognize your own worth and the effort you’re putting in to achieve your goals. It’s all too easy to get caught up in comparing your journey to someone else’s, and I still have to remind myself of this regularly. Ultimately, no one else is living your life the way you do, and that’s what makes you unique. Concentrate on your personal growth and honing your skills; the rewards will be far more fulfilling.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Over the last year, I’ve really improved on my piping skills. Since I focus on vintage-style cakes, honing my piping technique and enhancing my detailing has been essential. I believe that it’s those small details that truly make a difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bakesy.shop/b/sweet-leens-cakes
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetleenscakes/?hl=en
Image Credits
All photos are taken by me!
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
