PREP’s Member Spotlight for February 2023 “VTasteCakes” vegan bakeshop makes desserts and bake-goods better for you with every bite.
From humble beginnings to multiple wholesale partnerships across Metro Atlanta, Jasmyn, and Aneesha Reddicks bring people together one dessert at a time by creating sustainable allergy-friendly items without sacrificing flavor. VTasteCakes is a black-owned, women-owned Vegan bake shop creating delicious baked treats from peach hand scratch-made blueberry muffins to decadent macaroons. It’s hard to believe these rich, delectable treats are 100% vegan, with soy-free options also available. We are so happy to have VTasteCakes as a part of the PREP community!
How did you first become a part of the restaurant/food industry, and what was your first job?
I started working in the food industry at the early age of 16. My first job was working at Little Caesars as a team member. Since then I have worked in every position in the food industry from serving, managing, product testing, and prep work, to catering.
How did you choose your name?
This was one of the most challenging things when I started the company. I came up with VTasteCakes after several brainstorming sessions. I stuck with the name because it aligned with what I was trying to do then. V- stands for Vegan, Taste- because I wanted everything to burst with flavor, and cakes- because that was my specialty. Of course, since then, we have expanded into creating more products; hence, we have modified our logo and name to include a vegan bakeshop.
How long have you been in Georgia and what first brought you here?
I am actually a native of Georgia. I grew up here my whole life, but for the majority of my life, I grew up in a small rural town called Royston, GA. It wasn’t till after college that I moved to the city. Which was a huge transition, but it definitely grew my character and expanded my dreams
What are the most important skills for a new food concept?
I think the most important skill is patience and consistency. An original concept can’t be rushed. It takes time and many failed attempts to create something great. However, if you stick with something long enough, you become a master, and the proof is always in the pudding!
What’s the biggest food business-related challenge that you had to struggle to overcome?
I think not being able to have a mentor is. Being from a small town and a first-generation entrepreneur, I did not know anyone that could mentor me. I am thankful for the many people who have helped guide me along the way, but that is something that I think would have made a major difference in my journey. The more you grow, the harder it is to find trustworthy people who genuinely care about helping you long-term. I overcame this struggle through my faith in God and being thankful to have made it this far. I truly believe this is my purpose of making a positive change in this world.
What prompted you to start a food business?
Honestly, I always wanted to own a bakery as early as I can remember. I just thought it would happen later in life. After learning that I could do this at a young age and people believed in my products, it motivated me. Along with I enjoy helping others and what better way than through good food and art?
What’s on your menu? Why did you choose this cuisine/product?
We are a 100% vegan bakery that offers Soy-free and Gluten free options. We create delicious, artistic bespoken desserts that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re plant-based or not, or you have some food allergies, we got you covered.
Are any new exciting news or events coming?
Yes, we have released our class schedules on our website for this year! Our next class is our Mother’s day class in which tickets are now available online!
How can someone buy your product?
We recently expanded to a storefront, where we have front counter menu options available for walk-ins ranging from cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pies, and more. We are open Tuesday- Saturday (for hours, visit our website: www.vtastecakes.com).
We also offer online pre-ordering for celebration cakes, large orders, and customs and weddings (on our website). Lastly, our products can be found at the following locations: Life Bistro, Buford Farmers Market, Fresh Harvest, and the Sevananda Market.