We recently had the chance to connect with Celeste Henry-Gordon and have shared our conversation below.
Celeste , so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think that others are secretly struggling with depression, and not seeking professional help for it. I can say that because I was one of those people that hid my depression for years. It wasn’t until I admitted it to myself and family and friends, sought professional help and medication that it became real. I’ve always felt as though it was something that I could shake, however that was not the case. I can say that with professional help from a therapist and medication, I live a normal and happy life. People should not be afraid to seek help, it is a normal thing. Mental Health Awareness is a must for our community.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Celeste Gordon, and I am the owner and operator of Celeste’s Cakes N More, LLC. I am a certified Pastry chef, and am classically trained with my Associates Degree in the Culinary Arts, and I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Small Business and Entrepreneurship. We have been in business since 2002, located in Pearland, Texas. We offer cakes and catering for all occasions. My specialty is my Award Winning cake pops, made in a variety of flavors, such as red velvet, chocolate, strawberry and my best seller butter. I am also known for my butter cake that is so moist and is the best in the city, and my buttercream made from scratch, that most clients don’t believe is not whipped icing. I am currently working on writing about my brand via a recipe book connected to my Creole roots. I want to focus on helping other small business with consulting, and teaching cake decorating classes.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship with my late husband Gebree Gordon, really shaped how I see myself. My husband always saw more in me than I did, and he pushed me everyday to be better. He was my partner, and we were able to bounce ideas around with each other, until they became a reality. My late husband made me see the potential in myself that has always been there, but was never unleashed until we met. Our relationship helped me to believe in myself, and know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would say to my younger self, that you have more in you than others see. I would say to be confident and sure of who are, and whose you are.. I would say that looks doesn’t make the person, friends don’t make the person , nor does money. I would say to live life to the fullest, and embrace family time, like you will never have it again.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that my family is what really matters to me. I have two young men Xavier and James and they are my world. We lost my husband Gebree due to pancreatic cancer and it has been really difficult, however my boys bring me joy ,and are such reflections of him, that I am blessed to still have. Also my big family, my roots, cooking, baking and entertaining are what matters!
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
Yes I am doing what I was born to do in my business and my work life, I say this because I am being a servant to others, the way that God intended me to be. I knew at an early age to do something that I love to do, that would get me up in morning, and willing to work day and night and have fun with. I am not perfect by any means, but I know that I am doing what I am supposed to doing, because it allows me to not only serve others, but to be kind to others, listen to others, and be someone that they can pray with, and share in their struggles with.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.celestescakesnmore.wixsite.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com @celestescakesnmorellc
- Linkedin: www.linkdlen.com./Celeste Henry-Gordon
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/celestescakesnmorellc
