Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Javellana.
Kimberly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started baking back in college! I always baked as a side hobby but in my junior year of college, I decided to apply to work for a local bakery in my college town. I ended up getting the job and started working as a front girl. I worked with that bakery for a little over 2 years and in that time I learned how to ice and decorate both cakes and cookies! It was great while I was there but after some time I began to get burnt out by the volume of items needed everyday, and also, I knew between cakes and cookies that I really only wanted to do cookies but with how the bakery was set up I ended up having to do cakes more often than not. So I decided to leave the bakery and begin my own business! Thus, Turtle Leaf Sweets was born!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all! Haha a lot of people that have met me always think that it’s been a relatively easy journey, I mean I sell cookies! How hard could it be? But really, when I first started out I really didn’t know any of my limits or have much knowledge. How many cookies could I bake at a time, how to decorate them, how much to charge, will anyone like these, those thoughts were always running in my mind. In general too, I happen to be an anxious person so having only this business as my source of income was also a struggle. I’ve pulled countless all-nighters, issued refunds, dealt with unkind people and yet TLS is still chugging along! It’s been a rough road and even now, just over a year later I still struggle with limiting my orders and over baking but it’s getting better!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a baker and cookier! I make custom decorated cookies and am known for my ube and pandan flavor! I make custom cakes here and there too but I am starting to steer away from cakes to focus solely on cookies. I am most proud of being able to do this full time and for just being able to make a living out of making cookies! What sets me apart from others is that my cookies are thick and still soft. The most common compliment I get are that my cookies are soft yet pretty.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Things are going to get TOUGH! But that’s okay! It’s okay to have moments of doubt and moments of wanting to quit but you started this for a reason!
Just remember that reason and things will GET BETTER! It’s hard to remember that everyone behind a business struggles sometimes, especially with social media but everyone struggles here and there. Also! Don’t be afraid to ask for help! You’d be surprised at just how many people are wanting to help and support you on this journey.
Contact Info:
- Email: turtleleafsweets@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turtleleafsweets/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/turtleleafsweets
Image Credits
Robert Breitenstein
