Shakelah Knox
Keep It Sweet by Shakelah llc. K.I.S.S.
- Tell us about your business?
Keep It Sweet by Shakelah LLC also known as K.I.S.S. is a confectionery company that specializes in all things sweet. We craft themed and gourmet desserts to fit any event, special occasion or decor. In addition, K.I.S.S. holds Sweet Craft Classes where we teach children and young adults the art of treat-making. We also like to vend at various pop-up shops and Farmer’s Markets around the city.
- Why did you start your business?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial drive in me, even at a young age. I was a full-time student and stay-at-home mother, so I decided it was the perfect time to start a business. I wanted to do something under my own initiative and went for it.
3.Why did you go into this type of business?
It was by chance that I entered into this industry as I didn’t have any prior baking experience or schooling. For Mother’s Day, I made my mother a box of chocolate covered strawberries and posted a picture on Facebook. From that post, I received lots of positive feedback and inquiries and that built up the momentum for the launch of K.I.S.S.
- What do you like most about what you do?
I love what I do! I not only enjoy the results, but the process as well… baking is very relaxing. But what I love the most is knowing my desserts are being enjoyed at someone’s special day/event, and that’s very rewarding. 
- What advice would you give to others who want to go into this type of business?
The best advice I can give to others who want to go into the baking business is to bake non-stop, perfect your recipes and make them your own. Also, pay just as much attention to decorating
as you do the taste. Presentation is everything.
- What has been your biggest obstacles?
My biggest obstacle has been being a one-woman operation and running all of the day-to day operations on my own. But I am learning to ask and rely on help, so I don’t get overwhelmed.
- How have you handled the many barriers that might have gotten in your way?
It’s important for me to take things one day at a time, prioritize, set guidelines and boundaries to run my business smoothly and efficiently. Barriers and obstacles always arise, but I always remember why I am doing this and pray through it.
- What would you do differently?
If I could do things differently, I would definitely spend more time networking, marketing and finding opportunities to get my name out there early on.
- Where would you like to be in the next 3 years?
In the next 3 years, I would love to have a brick and mortar to run my business out of. Having a physical presence would allow me to take my business to the next level and truly legitimizing my business.
- Why is being your own boss so important to you?
Being a boss is important to me because it allows me the freedom and flexibility to earn income doing what I love. I get the opportunity to create a brand that represents me, my passions and abilities for others to enjoy.
Info@KissConfections.com
www.KissConfections.com
www.Facebook.com/KissConfections
