Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Niznik.
Hi Jessica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My mom used to make cakes and cookies for people years ago when I was little, she was also once an instructor with Wilton. As a very young child, my mom would keep my hands busy in her kitchen by letting me help and also I would decorate plates with her left over icing. Every year she made our birthday cakes until I started asking to make my own!
Once I was in highschool, I joined the Culinary Arts program and for 2 years I enjoyed learning so much. We got to intern our senior year! I interned at a few local bakeries and then was hired on at the Hilton Palacio Del Rio off of the Riverwalk. That was so much fun, but also very demanding at 16/17 years old. I was working 20-24 hours almost every weekend. It was fast paced and I got to see and learn so much! I remember working over Thanksgiving and Christmas since the hotel industry is ALWAYS open. After I realized that was maybe too demanding I was hired at a small bakery in Cibolo and I became one of the main decorators. I loved that job so much, it truly was so much fun. Seeing the difference between a huge chain hotel and a small woman owned business was very enlightening. I loved it!
I made my first wedding cake for a family friend at 16. I had planned to continue my path in baking at the Culinary Institute in Austin. I met my now-husband during these years in Culinary Arts and after we had our first child I started working administrative jobs. I would still dabble in cake for friends and family, but was not focused on it until we had our second son in 2014. I thought I could do it part time while staying home with our new baby. It quickly turned from a part time thing into very full time/all the time.
Now, 8 years later + one more baby! I am so thrilled with this business. I now focus on weddings and small celebrations like baby and wedding showers. I create something that may not last long, but it leaves a lasting impression. I have learned and pushed myself more than I thought possible. I have had many sleepless nights, but everything has so been worth it! I love my business, I love that I created it and that what I do makes people smile and happy. I have a job that is based in love. The love of friends, family and new relationships! What else could a person ask for?
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think the biggest struggle for anyone who is self employed is balance. This took MANY years to figure out what works best. I have an amazing husband, who helps when he can! Learning how to juggle friendships, family, parenthood, marriage and a business is not an easy task. I have implemented timelines for my business, so I can remain available for my family as much as possible. Unfortunately, there are still going to be special moments I will miss. I understand that, but make every effort to make it work. Over the years I have been told “I am going to get tired of this schedule.” I am my own boss and this is all a reflection of who I am, even if that boss may be a tyrant at times, I am happy to see myself accomplish my own business and personal goals.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a cake and cookie decorator! I make food “look too pretty to eat” is what people say! I think I equally make wedding cakes and decorated cookies. So many of my customers rave about the taste of my cakes and cookies that they “don’t JUST look pretty!” Everything I make is fresh, so I think people can definitely tell.
I am most proud of my sculpted cakes! Typically these have been for grooms cakes, but I love the realistic factor. I want people to question if it is real or if it’s cake.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I work with and for numerous businesses in our community. I love a good challenge and the chance to create something different. Due to my tight schedule I am not usually available for anything less than 6 weeks away. I am going to be launching a new product soon, available for pick up within a day. I have a VIP email blast that gets all the info first, before anyone else. My website has a link to sign up!
Contact Info:
- Email: frostedconfetti@outlook.com
- Website: Frostedconfetti.com
- Instagram: frosted_confetti
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frostedconfetti
- Other: https://www.weddingwire.com/biz/frosted-confetti-san-antonio/c9021a75f23f9e91.html
Image Credits
Snap Chic
Anna Kay
Ashley Medrano
Under The Sun
