As a small business owner, few things are as fulfilling as the connections I’ve built with my incredible customers—my "Pastelitos." At every event I attend, I am reminded that Vlania’s Tres Leches and Pastelería is more than just a business; it’s a community bound by a shared love for delicious desserts and meaningful connections. This blog series, The Pastelito Chronicles, is a way to celebrate these heartwarming encounters that make this journey so special.
A Serendipitous Connection
At Dade City Farms, I met a young woman whose story truly touched my heart. After enjoying my cakes at the farm, she went out of her way to seek me out at the Fresh Market in Wiregrass. When she found me, I was both overjoyed and humbled. It was the first time someone had connected so deeply with my brand that they pursued it to another location.
Unfortunately, by the time she arrived, I had sold out of my Tres Leches cakes—a bittersweet moment for both of us. But I couldn’t let her leave empty-handed. I offered her an Onigiri Sweet Cake instead, along with a heartfelt hug. Seeing her smile and knowing she had made such an effort reminded me why I started this business in the first place: to create desserts that bring joy and connect people.
A Shared Love for Japan
Another memorable encounter happened during my first time at the Fishhawk Ranch Holiday Market. I debuted my Onigiri Sweet Cake, inspired by Japanese rice cakes, and a curious couple stopped by to inquire about them. As we chatted, we discovered a shared love for Japan, and a connection was instantly formed. They purchased a strawberry Onigiri Sweet Cake that day, and as they left, I mentioned my plans to introduce an Oreo flavor next.
To my surprise and delight, the same couple was the first to visit my booth at the next market—bright and early! They were thrilled to try the Oreo Onigiri Sweet Cake and even picked up a few Tres Leches cakes. Our conversation picked up right where it left off, and we bonded over our shared experiences as parents. Their enthusiasm and loyalty reminded me how food—and the stories we share around it—can create lasting friendships.
Building a Community of Sweet Adventurers
Stories like these fuel my passion for what I do. Every market, every cake, every conversation—they’re all steps on a journey I never imagined would be so fulfilling. While I don’t know exactly where this road is taking me, I’m grateful for the incredible community of Pastelitos I’ve built along the way.
Together, we’re embarking on a flavorful adventure, exploring the world of Tres Leches cakes and beyond. With every event and every new face, I am reminded that this isn’t just about desserts; it’s about celebrating life, culture, and the connections that make it all worthwhile.
Stay tuned for more stories from The Pastelito Chronicles. Let’s continue to celebrate, one cake and one memory at a time.
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