Today we’d like to introduce you to Anita Emmanuel.
Hi Anita, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up watching my mom bake — it was the happiest I ever saw her. She always seemed so full of joy whenever she was in the kitchen, and even though I didn’t realize it back then, those moments planted a seed in me.
Funny enough, I never imagined baking would become my passion. I actually wanted to be a lawyer and a writer. But over time, I found myself constantly watching baking videos on Facebook and saving them, telling myself, “One day, I’m going to try this.”
On my 27th birthday, I asked all my friends and family to buy me baking equipment. They did — but I didn’t touch any of it for an entire year. Then one day, I finally decided to bake something. My very first bake was a blondie, and from that moment, I fell completely in love with baking.
I love the smell of butter melting, the sound of eggs cracking, and the magic of turning simple ingredients into something beautiful. That’s when I knew this was more than a hobby — it was something I was meant to do.
I later decided to attend pastry school to learn the craft properly, and soon after, I started my business — Pastriesbyani — about two years ago. What started as a curiosity has now grown into something that brings me so much joy and purpose.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. When I started, I honestly didn’t even know where to begin. I started by giving away free desserts just to share what I loved doing. Then one day, someone told me, “You should turn this into a business.”
I have a degree in Business Administration, so I understood the theory and structure of business — but running your own business is a completely different experience. It’s emotional, unpredictable, and personal in every way.
I decided the best way to get my desserts in front of people was to start attending local markets as a vendor. The first time I set up my booth, I was so excited! I made little money that day, but I didn’t realize that profit wasn’t just about sales — I hadn’t yet factored in vendor fees, ingredients, packaging, and all the little costs that add up.
There were days people would walk straight past my booth, and other days when I sold out and couldn’t believe it. It was a learning curve, but it taught me so much about resilience, presentation, and connecting with customers face to face.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Pastriesbyani is a Houston-based cottage-style bakery built on love, creativity, and the belief that desserts should be both beautiful and memorable. I specialize in handcrafted cookies, cakes, brownies, petit fours, and other indulgent pastries — each one made from scratch with premium ingredients and a lot of heart.
What sets Pastriesbyani apart is my dedication to flavor innovation and presentation. I love experimenting with unique combinations like pistachio-raspberry, Biscoff s’mores, and caramel passionfruit, as well as offering elegant event-style desserts that tell a story. Every dessert I make is created to spark joy — whether it’s for a special occasion, a market day, or just a sweet moment at home.
I’m most proud of how far the brand has come in such a short time. From starting with small markets to being recognized by local communities, Pastriesbyani has become more than a bakery — it’s a reflection of my journey, my culture, and my passion for bringing people together through desserts.
What I want readers to know about Pastriesbyani is that my brand is truly one-of-a-kind. Every dessert I make is crafted with love, care, and creativity. I specialize in unique flavor combinations that you won’t find anywhere else — desserts that are both comforting and indulgent, each one baked personally by me.
All of my treats are homemade and handcrafted, made in small batches to ensure quality and freshness. Whether it’s a cookie, cake, brownie, or pastry , my goal is to create something that not only tastes amazing but also brings a sense of joy and comfort to whoever enjoys it.
My offerings and services are very broad because I love creating desserts for all kinds of occasions. I make birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and celebration cakes — but also simple, comforting cakes made just for enjoying at home.
I also offer small treats and cookies that are available anytime. All you have to do is send a message on instagram @pastriesbyani or order online, and I’m always ready to serve.
No matter the occasion, I want every customer to feel the same love and care that goes into each dessert I bake. Whether it’s a grand wedding cake or a single cookie, every bite from Pastriesbyani is made to bring joy, comfort, and sweetness to your day.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Oh yes, I’ve had so many amazing supporters — and I can truly say I wouldn’t be here without the help of God. From the very beginning, my friends and family have shown up for me in ways that mean the world. They come to my events, help me set up when I’m stressed or overwhelmed, and constantly remind me why I started this journey.
My best friend, Ifey, has been one of my biggest cheerleaders — always helping out, showing up, and even promoting my desserts to his coworkers at the hospital where he works. My boss, Jessica Estrada who’s a lawyer, has also been incredibly supportive and has helped spread the word about my business.
When I first started and didn’t know how to handle my social media page, my older sister Loveth stepped in and helped manage it until I was ready to take over. And whenever I just needed to vent or cry (lol), my younger sisters Kossy and Chinelo and Angel were always there to listen and encourage me.
I’ve also had amazing friends like Cameron, who would load all my market supplies into his truck and come back to help me pack up after long event days. And when I needed company at vendor events so I wouldn’t feel alone, I could always count on Cameron Critendon or Kamryn Rice to be there by my side.
Pricing:
- 🍪 Cookies: $5–$7 each (New York–style stuffed cookies in a variety of signature flavors)
- 🍰 Cakes: wedding cakes or birthday or just because Starting at $65 for 6-inch custom cakes (pricing varies by design and flavor)
- 🍫 Brownies: $8 each (premium layered flavors like Biscoff S’mores and Caramel Fudge)
- Petit fours or macarons starts at $20 per dozen
- Cupcakes, cake pops prices varies as well
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Pastriesbyani.square.site
- Instagram: Pastriesbyani
- Facebook: Pastriesbyani
Image Credits
Photos by Anita Emmanuel Pastriesbyani/ Alex Gonzalez
