Since the customized cakes have entered the market, many famous bakeries are facing a strong challenge to keep up with the quality and looks of the cake. People prefer cakes that not only taste good but should look out of this world. Several new confectionery brands have taken over the market and competing each other fiercely.
We came across So’eat, one such brand that has gained quite a recognition within 3 years only. Its owner, Amber Ali has worked hard, not to take her company to the heights of success but, to keep So’eat committed to their customers and give them the best cakes they can. And this is what has earned them a recognition in this competitive market. We interviewed Amber Ali about So’eat and she gladly answered all our questions.
So’eat. What was the reason you chose this name?
The name So’eat was never a choice to pick, it was created. To start with, I can not thank my family enough for their unconditional support and appreciation. The name So’eat was created by my sister, amalgamation of words Sweet and Eat. It is different and depicts the nature of our products at So’eat.
Was baking always your passion or was it just a hobby?
Baking had never been my passion or my hobby. But I was and still fond of cooking. I would spend time creating dishes for my family and friends. Baking has been my experimental ways, trying new things and failing at the start. But I discovered baking was much smoother and involved creativity to it. With time, I polished my skills and then So’eat came into being.
Can you share something about how you managed to execute the idea of So’eat into reality?
There is no particular story to start with, So’eat was just a vague idea at the start. Family and friends had been my major trigger to initiate the idea. A random Facebook page was my beginning phase. To bring So’eat into the limelight, I started displaying cakes and cupcakes at organic market events that are held in Lahore. Through these markets, I was able to create some little name for So’eat. Gradually through word of mouth, So’eat, within less than 3 years today, is noticed and appreciated.
Decorating a cake is one thing. You also paint the cakes, are you an artist too?
Cake decorating involves a lot of patience and love. I was never a painter by profession but I suppose it runs within my genes, my father had been an artist followed by my sister. With this journey, I explored that I had this creative side as well. So’eat not only gave me a business today but it also helped me explore the artist’s skills that I have, and what I would love to do in the future. I’m still at a very early stage of learning and I have a long way to go.
That one thing you love about being in this business?
I love everything about this business. I don’t have any team to work with hence my business is my sole creation. The long working hours are tiring and stressful but in the end when you see what you’ve created, its a joyful feeling. I love making beautiful cakes and being a part of people’s happy moments.
What do you think is the best part of So’eat that makes it stand out amongst the likes of it?
I believe So’eat still needs to make its place in the market, which will come with time and efforts. However, the best part of So’eat is its commitment and dedication towards work and clients.
Do you believe that the work and effort you put on your cakes and sweets finally pay off?
Definitely, hard work and efforts always pay off. Today So’eat is recognized by people, which is only because of constant advertising, customer care, working on the feedbacks, and also creating new visual ideas for cakes, for So’eat’s existing and new clients.
What challenges you have to face in running So’eat?
The biggest challenge I suppose is the market itself. The market is quite competitive and filled with all new and pioneer bakers. As a company, you need to keep yourself updated with the external factors.
As an entrepreneur, what do you believe plays a major role in your success?
As an entrepreneur, The success comes from determination and hard work. And how you face your fall coming.
Any advice you would like to give to the women in Pakistan who wish to start their own business or enter entrepreneurship?
It is always difficult to start something new. If you wish to start with your own work, all you need is a clear vision, dedication, hard work and constant learning attitude. Nothing comes easy, it takes time and will to build something and of course how you react to your failure and success.
All Image Source: www.facebook.com/soeatbyamber
