Chiisai Cakes - Robert Shindo
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Robert Shindo, Founder of Chiisai Cakes, located in Chatsworth, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Chiisai Cakes LLC is a small home bakery that I started to express the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover," by not being the "normal" baker. Chiisai Cakes' desserts are for anyone and everyone that has that sweet tooth and just needs that special something to satisfy that craving.
Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. When I was younger, I was very confused about who I was and, honestly, had no clue what to do with my future. Due to my appearance and the way I used to dress, I was always labeled as a "bad person," and with that judgment always being around, I ended up getting myself into quite a lot of trouble. As years went by, I would always watch my parents and grandparents cook for the whole family, and little by little started doing things in the kitchen with all of them. From then on, I would always sneak myself into the kitchen to learn all the family's secret recipes. With my family and their support of my cooking, I finally knew what I wanted to do with my future and ended up getting a Bachelor's Degree from the Art Institute - of Los Angeles.
During and after getting my Bachelors Degree, I started my adventure in the culinary industry and tattoo collecting. I took every chance I could to work in every position in a restaurant (bussing, running, serving, hosting, dishwashing, line cook, prep cook, manager & general manager). After putting my family through everything I did, I started to express myself with tattoos; I am now around 80% tattooed, and every single one has a story about my life and my family. My family means the world to me; they have always been my number one supporters since I was born. Seeing them happy and proud motivates me to continue my journey.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Being able to continue to promote not judging someone before knowing them and being able to see the joy and satisfaction when someone tries my creations.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Remember that life is not just all about work and being able to put work aside, even if it is for an hour, just to concentrate on myself.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't practice until you get it right; practice until you can't get it wrong.
- You have to enjoy what you do for a living. If you don't, you won't be able to put 100% into it. Be passionate, and put love into what you enjoy.
- Study your demographics; you need to know what is wanted in the area you are in; location is a huge factor in making your business strive.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Do what you love and love what you do.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.chiisaicakes.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chiisaicakes
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiisai.cakes/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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