Meet Erika Cervantes

We were lucky to catch up with Erika Cervantes recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Erika, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

Imposter syndrome has hit me so many times whether it was doubting myself or thinking I’m not as good enough.
I think some of the ways I have learned to overcome imposter syndrome is to stop and remember that I have worked hard to get where I am and to truly believe in myself. I think it also helps sometimes to lean on others for encouragement on the days that I don’t feel I have any myself.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I currently do have a full time job, but have started also growing a business as a custom cake and treat maker. My main focus is creating custom orders for cakes and mini bundt cakes. I noticed bundt cakes weren’t a common item being offered from other bakers. I have worked to create my own style and decorate my bundt cakes perfect for holidays or special occasions. My idea behind the Bundt is to create a product that is perfect for any occasion whether it’s a girls night or a holiday or a special occasion. I felt bundt cakes were a more accessible and casual item that could also be customized to the occasion.
What I enjoy most about my business is the creative process that comes with decorating a cake or treats. It’s so special to me seeing the look on clients faces when they love a cake design or when I receive a message from them telling me how much everyone loved the desserts.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back on my journey thus far I believe the most important advice I would give is to not be afraid to ask for help and make connections. You’ll be surprised how many wonderful growing businesses are out there that will help you get your name out there and support you in your process. I’ve asked friends who also run businesses their advice on how to run a successful business. Family and friends are so supportive of sharing posts to their stories and recommending me to others. I feel extremely lucky to have a supportive circle.

Practice your decorating skills and challenge yourself! Yes, they are other amazing decorators out there and it’s easy to doubt yourself and ask why your products don’t look like theirs. Nobody is born with perfect decorating skills. Everybody starts at the beginning.

Lastly, I would say to believe in yourself and try not to compare your journey with others. This is one I am working on everyday. There are people out there who haven’t discovered you yet and will appreciate what you do. There are people out there who will order from you for a reason.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

Yes, I always welcome collaborations with others. At this time, I welcome collaborations with event planners, other bakers/treatmakers, or any business who is willing to try my product and share it with others!

If this is something you are open to, you can contact me via Intstagram @bakingwitherika

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @bakingwitherika
• Other: TikTok: @bakingwitherikaa