Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashton McKinley.
Hi Ashton, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My first interest in baking came when I was only 7 years old. What began as a childhood interest grew into something much bigger. To me, baking has never been about making yummy desserts. It has given me a creative outlet. It has helped me make memories with those I care about and share something made with love with others.
Years later, my family, friends, and even a college professor at Texas Southern University noticed my talent and encouraged me to pursue my passion and start a business. So, thanks to them, I leaped and started A Lil’ Piece of Heaven Bakery.
Like most entrepreneurs, I started small by giving my baked goods to family and friends, then later participated in pop-up events to show others what my baked goods are all about. Through each event, I gained confidence, connected with my customers, and expanded my brand.
Now, A Lil’ Piece of Heaven Bakery is an online bakery specializing in handmade bundt cakes and a variety of other sweet treats. Although I work full-time and attend school full-time, I keep working hard to expand my business and turn my childhood hobby into a lasting legacy.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While my entrepreneurial journey has had its ups and downs, each obstacle has taught me to build a successful business through perseverance, develop my entrepreneurial spirit, and stay true to my brand. Over the last six years, I have faced many obstacles, including rising ingredient and supply costs, securing regular spots at local farmers’ markets, and building a customer base that comes back time and again.
The hardest part of running a small business is often finding the right balance of price and product quality. As a young entrepreneur, I have found out that running a successful business requires patience, consistency, and flexibility, particularly while trying to run my business professionally (with a full-time job) while also continuing my education and personal development.
Regardless of the obstacles I encounter, however, I remain true to myself and the reason I began this endeavor. I know how much hard work, care, and love I put into every dessert I make. I know there is nothing like seeing someone take their first bite of one of my desserts, smile, and enjoy the happiness my baked goods bring. This is what reminds me of why I do what I do.
To me, success isn’t defined solely by selling a product; it is defined by the experience that creates memories for others. Each time I have faced a challenge since beginning A Lil’ Piece of Heaven Bakery, it has reinforced my resolve to continue growing my bakery. When you give your heart to something, I truly believe that people can tell the difference.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My passion for baking has been central, but my story goes well beyond the kitchen. One of my greatest accomplishments is graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in Management from Texas Southern University. My educational journey has not followed the typical path. After leaving college due to being in a domestic violence relationship, as well as dealing with other personal issues that diverted my course, I eventually earned my degree. When I returned to school, I was resolute that no obstacle would stop me from achieving this goal. This achievement means a lot to me as it exemplifies my fortitude, perseverance & ability to triumph over adversity.
Another unexpected blessing came before the pandemic when I was considering a career change. My former boss recognized something in me that I hadn’t necessarily recognized in myself and believed I was the best candidate for an IT Procurement Specialist position. I took the opportunity, stepped outside my comfort zone, and discovered a career that I genuinely love. What started as an unexpected career move became another passion, helping me develop skills in business operations, strategic sourcing, vendor relationships, and negotiations.
Today, I can combine my business education, professional experience in IT procurement, and creativity as a baker. Each part of my journey has contributed to the woman and entrepreneur I am today.
What I’m most proud of isn’t just what I’ve accomplished, but everything I’ve overcome to get here. I believe what sets me apart is my determination to pursue multiple passions without allowing myself to be defined by just one title. I’m a business professional, a college graduate, a baker, and an entrepreneur, and I take pride in every one of those roles.
If I can impart just one message by sharing my experiences with you, I believe I’ll inspire you to realize that even if your circumstances make you postpone your dreams, they should never dictate where those dreams are headed. I am an example that we all can begin again, reinvent ourselves, and keep building a life rich in purpose, passion, and a lil’ piece of Heaven along the way.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my earliest (and still one of my best) memories from growing up as a latchkey kid is how much I loved to bake and create so easily at such a young age. The memories are so vivid – like remembering the thrill of baking a basic box cake on the 4th of July or having fun in the kitchen creating an apple crumble pie. It’s really special to take those simple ingredients and turn them into something that tastes great.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://justalilpieceofheaven.com
- Instagram: @justalilpieceofheaven
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justalilpieceofheaven
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-lil-piece-of-heaven-bakery/
- TikTok: @justalilpieceofheaven
