Today we’d like to introduce you to James “Jarrell” Atkins.
Hi James “Jarrell”, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
James “Jarrell” Atkins was born and raised in the small town of Kentwood, Louisiana. Growing up in a home where his grandmother spent hours daily pouring love into meals for her family, as his mother often made the most delicious array of desserts, James was introduced to soulful southern cuisines and decadent baked goods at an early age.
James’ deeper interest in baking emerged during his college years, while earning a Bachelor’s of Architecture degree from Southern University and A&M Colleges in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Away from home and his mom’s irresistible desserts, he began requesting her assistance in efforts to recreate her recipes to satisfy his unwavering sweet tooth. Eventually, he began honing his craft; challenging himself to create new recipes while incorporating designs that merged the detail and artistry of architecture with his passion for baking.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to being an entrepreneur hasn’t been easy. Before stepping out on faith to pursue this passion full-time, I was an Architectural Designer working 40 plus hours a week, stressed at all times, to the point of having hypertension, long days and short nights, all while taking at least 4-5 cake orders for weekend events weekly. During those early days as a cake artist, I was very green and simply enjoyed putting smiles on people’s faces with the art. My passion blinded me from seeing the true value of what my items were truly worth. So, I was undercharging. That was the first major struggle; learning the value of my work and feeling confident to charge what it was worth. After getting over that hurdle, the next challenge was understanding that every customer isn’t my customer. That sounds harsh, but it is true. With that new challenge, and a rise in prices, better branding and marketing had to be done to catch the eyes of the desired market. This process is ongoing and continuously evolving. Finally, I must say the biggest challenge on this journey was taking the leap of faith and deciding to leave my career job for a year to focus on my business. it was the scariest and most intense time of my life. Prayer and faith brought me through that.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Today, I infuse my architectural training with what I believe is a culinary gift: creating tailored sweets for every and any occasion. Tailored Cakes by J.J. Atkins is proud of delivering products that are freshly baked in-house upon ordering, using the best ingredients, and are worked on diligently until every detail is attended to. My creative eye, attention to detail, willingness to push the envelope, and flavorful edible art are just a few reasons why our clients keep coming back for more!
What does success mean to you?
I define success by evaluating the following:
1. Am I genuinely happy doing something that I’m passionate about?
2. Does my passion align with the gifts, talents, abilities I’ve been blessed with?
3. Am I thriving financially, spiritually, and morally while using the gifts, talents, and abilities I’ve been blessed with?
I’d consider myself to be successfully blessed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tailoredcakesbyjja.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailoredcakesbyjjatkins?igsh=bDJwbmh6NzRlMDd5
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZsTSUVTpM/
