Meet Erika Livingston | Online Bakery Owner and Operator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erika Livingston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erika, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
The most important thing I’ve done as a parent to impact my daughter, is to just step out on faith and put myself out there. When I first started my business, I had no idea where it would take me and how far I would go, but I knew I just had to do it. I think the most impactful thing my daughter has seen is that the business is evolving and changing (in a positive way), and that you have to be open for growth.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
A Cakeful of Joy is an online bakery that specializes in making homemade cakes and treats. We take pride in using natural ingredients and having a quick turnaround time. We are most excited about being able to continue to use our tried and true recipes and still be able to create and try new things, keeping the rich flavors in tack. We recently just published our cookbook, “The Joy of Baking”, which is available on Amazon, and we are very proud of this accomplishment.

Being a business owner is not easy, but you learn valuable lessons along the way. As a business owner you have to continue to learn about your craft, whether it’s taking classes, practicing, getting the consumers involved, it’s a never ending process that can be so rewarding! I think the one lesson I have learned is to “stay ready”, so you don’t have to “get ready”. Always make sure you have the supplies you need from start to finish, especially if you offer shipping, which we do.

I want the world to know that A Cakeful of Joy is committed to bringing a piece of joy into every cake and treat you order from us. We strive to make it feel like a special occasion every time you do business with us. Our brand was built on the foundation of joy and love, and let’s face it, you can never have to much of that!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting the area, I would arrange for a Hop-n-Go Tour of Atlanta. They take you to some significant spots in Atlanta, and some great places to eat. I would also have to take them to Roof Top Atlanta to enjoy the nice vibe and atmosphere there. I would definitely take them to the Coca-Cola Factory, Georgia Aquarium, The Varsity, and the Martin Luther King Jr. museum. The Trap Museum would be on the list, as well as, the Illuminarium. Moving outside of the city limits, I would definitely say a day of shopping at the Mall of Georgia, a Braves game at Truist Park, and some relaxation time at Chateau Elan.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I need to shoutout my mother (may she rest in peace)! If it wasn’t for my mother teaching me how to bake and letting me shadow her in the kitchen growing up, I would not even be where I am today!! I have an amazing family who love and support me no matter what I am involved in, however, there are a few people who need to be recognized. LaToya Torrence, CEO of MakRen, PR, has been more than encouraging and helpful in assisting me and my business in terms of marketing, publications, etc. You name it and her company can do it. Lacheisha Chambers, CEO of Level Up Academy, thank you for setting the guidelines for operating and running a business correctly. Lynn Rogers, I can’t thank you enough for cleaning out your baking supplies and handing them over to me! Taelyn, you have made me a better person, and I continue to push because I know you are watching me, I love being your mommy! To my family back home, words cannot expressed how grateful I am for your support!

Website: www.acakefulofjoy.org

Instagram: www.instagram.com/acakefulofjoy

Facebook: www.facebook.com/acakefulofjoy