Today we’d like to introduce you to Candace Nelson
Hi Candace, 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?
I started my career as an investment banker, but after the dot-com bust, I found myself out of a job and at a crossroads. Instead of jumping back into finance, I decided to pursue something I was truly passionate about – baking. Everyone thought I was a little crazy when I decided to open Sprinkles, the world’s first cupcake bakery. It was the middle of the low carb diet craze, but I believed cupcakes were the small daily indulgence people were looking for. Sprinkles grew into an international brand, and after selling the company, I found myself itching to build something new. That’s how Pizzana came to life. Food has always been a way for me to connect with people and create joy, and that’s what drives me every day. We’re now at seven locations and growing, bringing people together over the comfort of great food.
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 was anything but smooth! When I first started Sprinkles, everyone told me it was a terrible idea to open a cupcake-only bakery—especially in the heart of Beverly Hills. Back then, a bakery that sold only cupcakes didn’t exist, and landlords literally hung up on me when I pitched the concept. The first few years were exhausting; I worked 20-hour days and even slept on the bakery floor just to keep up with demand. When we launched Pizzana, I thought my industry experience would make the process smooth sailing. But I quickly realized that running a restaurant is a completely different beast, with its own unique set of challenges. Still, I’ve always believed that challenges spark innovation, and at Pizzana, we’ve embraced every one of them!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Pizzana is all about taking a simple, classic food and elevating it. We specialize in Neo-Neapolitan pizza, which marries the tradition of authentic Neapolitan pizza with fresh ingredients and modern flavors. What sets us apart is our dedication to craftsmanship. Our pizzas are made with “slow dough” that has been fermented for two days and the finest ingredients imported from Italy or sourced from local farmers’ markets.
I’m incredibly proud of the sense of community Pizzana has built. Food is such a powerful way to bring people together, and that’s something we focus on every day.
This year, we launched Cacio Club, a loyalty program that gives back to our customers with free food, exclusive offers, first access to special events and more!
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to embrace the “crazy” ideas. Every breakthrough sounds impossible at first. But if you believe in your vision, you have to stick with it, even when others doubt it. Sometimes the things that make the least sense, like a Cupcake ATM, are exactly what the world needs!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pizzana.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pizzana
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@pizzana_la
