Today we’d like to introduce you to Tania Varela.
Tania, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I originally went to a six months culinary school program from which I graduated and earned my culinary arts certificate and Serv Safe. They offered a two weeks baking and pastry course in the six months program and that’s where I truly fell in love with baking. I have been baking since I was 12 but only box cake and brownie mixes. Over the years, I started trying out recipes from scratch and surprisingly enough, they would come out pretty good. I then decided I wanted to take it further and start practicing decorating the cakes. At first, I was no good, but after watching millions of YouTube videos and practicing on cakes for my family, I slowly started getting better. There were many times when cakes did not come out the way I wanted them too and that would frustrate me and make me feel as if I should quit. I have always been very hard on myself because I expect nothing but the best coming from me, and when I felt My work wasn’t at its best I would put myself down. Now I look back and I am so proud to have continued and not given up because I see how far I’ve come. Mistakes, problems, imperfections, they have helped me figure out ways of remaining calm and grow in what I love.
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?
Definitely not a smooth road. I was basically self-taught so learning how to make new things was a must for me because I knew that was the only way for me to grow. I failed many times, I cried many times, I beat myself up and told myself many times to just stop baking and creating because I wasn’t getting better. Stress was huge because I knew the type of baker I wanted to be and it just wasn’t happening. I didn’t want to just be any baker, I wanted to be the best baker. Time showed me that practice makes perfect and yes you can fail many times, but if you’re consistent you will eventually get to where you want. I continue to strive to become better because I know my potential goes far beyond than just this.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a baker. I am known for my customed cakes, custom flavors, decor & sweet treats. I am most proud of my determination. I am not the type of person that gives up easily, I have many dreams and I plan on accomplishing them all. I always strive to give out the best. Best flavors, textures and quality. I am currently focused on taking Sugar Infused to a higher level and being a role model for my children. My kids keep me on my feet and remind me everyday of why I am doing this. Sugar Infused will be my legacy for them.
What are your plans for the future?
I would love to open up a successful bakery. I try to get my kids to engage with me as much as possible, not only is this teaching them a skill but it also helps in our bonding time. I plan on teaching them everything I learn and pass down all my knowledge so in a not so far future if they decide they want to be part of this family business, they will be ahead of the game. I would also love to be able to give baking classes to the public and hopefully one day even have my own baking show. My dreams go far beyond anything I can say right now, just know that anything I put my mind too, will get done.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: SugarInfused_
Image Credits
Caylia Wallace (she took the family picture, of my kid’s & I)
