Changing the Way We Cake

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jordan Rondel, Founder of The Caker, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

The Caker is a brand based on enhancing celebrations through cakes. We have 3 sides to the business - fresh, made-to-order cakes, luxury cake kits, recipe books, and then me, Jordan, as the face of the brand, celebrity chef, and influencer.

Tell us about yourself

I grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, but my obsession, and I mean an obsession with baking, was born from spending my holidays in Paris with my grandparents. As I grew up, the kitchen became my domain. Being completely self-taught meant I had the freedom to bend the rules and push the boundaries of traditional baking. I developed a unique style of my own. In 2010 when I was 21, I made a life-changing decision - I turned my passion into a career and officially became The Caker. I built a made-to-order cake business selling homemade-style cakes that taste even better than they look - super moist, fudgy ones bursting with flavor. I became the go-to baker for fashion events, art gallery openings, and high-end parties. I was making cakes cool again. Eventually, the bakery was (and still is) pumping out hundreds of cakes a day, and I had several published books under my belt, but I wanted to provide great cakes to an even wider audience. So I spent the next few years developing a line of luxury make-at-home cake kits. Now, I live in Los Angeles, where I'm continuing to expand my brand and build a new life!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Moving countries right before a pandemic, finding a way to pivot, and surviving!

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Never being able to switch off. There's barely a moment where I'm not thinking about my business, even in my sleep!

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Try not to over-invest in the early days - grow slow and smart.
Don't be afraid to face monumental stress and pressure - if you love what you do enough, you will be able to handle it.
Stick at it! It's easy to want to give up at times, but perseverance is key.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.the-caker.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaker/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-rondel/

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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