We had the good fortune of connecting with Koya Grant and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Koya, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I knew I wanted to be DIFFERENT. Set myself apart and stand out. I started my business creating alcohol infused cupcakes. At the time, I was a bartender and server, and I figured I could market myself to a different demographics by doing what wasn’t being done. That propelled me into creating other treats, which was the gateway to cakes. My i guess, my initial process was to do something I loved and get paid for it. To pour my creativity into creating an amazing sweets experience for my clients.
What should our readers know about your business?
Koya’s Kre8tions is my baby. I’ve endured the labor pains to birth this amazing business. Koya’s Kre8tions isn’t like any other online bakery. We take the time to get to know our clients. Their likes and dislikes. Exchange images of designs and concepts. Ensure our clients feel comfortable with the process, and all prior to any form of payment being submitted. I am most proud of the growth of Koya’s Kre8tions. Just in the pandemic alone, we have grown exponentially. Our clients have increased. Our offerings have expanded. We are excited to see what is in store for not only Koya’s Kre8tions, but our newest addition…Kre8tions University! This was not an easy road. I had to work extremely to make Koya’s Kre8tions what you see today. Many sleepless nights followed by long days to make sure everything exceeded client expectation. Working to ensure that I kept up with what was trending, but being sure to make it the “Koya way”! For some time, I struggled to find my audience/ demographic. I knew who I wanted to cater to, but struggle on how to reel them in. I had to learn a quick lesson, which is…”everyone CAN’T be your client! And that’s ok. I give people the example of Walmart and Target all the time. They are stores that sell the same things for the most part, but their clientele differs. I also had to learn that all money isn’t good money. It’s ok to turn down certain orders. When asked, “what do I want the world to know about me or my brand story”…… I’d say, I’d like them to know that this is only the beginning! With God at the forefront, I plan to make Koya’s Kre8tions a name that you won’t forget. For all of the right reasons.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend visiting me in Atlanta for a week…. it would go a little like this. Breakfast at breakfast at Barney’s, lunch at ponce city market, then fun in the rooftop. Dinner at poor Calvin’s or agave. Sky view Atlanta for sure. The GA Aquarium. Maybe a few lounges. Bad axe throwing. Or bowling at the painted duck is always a good time. And depending on the weather, maybe some ATV’ing out in the country. There so much do to in Atlanta. We’d have endless options. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I could be here all day giving credit, but here are just a few. First and foremost, ALL credit goes to the most high God! He has blessed me and my business. Everything that Myself and my businesses are, are anchored HIM! My family…..My parents, who have raised me to be an independent, well-versed, well-rounded woman are due a shout out! They have been my biggest cheerleaders, as well as my most amazing constructive critics. My little brother, who is always right on time to hype me up when I’ve completed an awesome work. I am beyond blessed and grateful to have them a part of my village. To my aunts, uncles, cousins, god parents, and adopted family….. I am beyond grateful. Thank you to my friends, both new and old. Their support of and respect for my business is still mind blowing. Shout out to a few of my amazing friendors and baker sisters… @_creativisuals, @delectabledelightsbyandie, @kristalizedsweets, @kayyskupcakes, @cakedbypetite, @lanaegotcakes, @lalascupcakesnj, @ndyjewels, @iamalliefriday, @mac_the_mogul, @cupcakemama216 and soooo soooo soooo much more! Thank you ladies for all being a helping hand or listening ear. Last, but certainly NOT LEAST, my amazing clients! You all ride for Koya’s Kre8tions like I’ couldn’t have ever imagined. You all are the reason we are what we are, and I wholeheartedly say…. as THANK YOU!
Instagram: @koyas_kre8tions
Facebook: Koya’s Kre8tions Pastry Parlor
Image Credits
Koya Grant @designerJov