We recently had the chance to connect with Tanya Nafe and have shared our conversation below.
Tanya, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My family always brings me joy. As my kids head into their teenager stage, it’s just been so rewarding being their mother. It has also given my husband and I more time to reconnect now that our children are older. We’ve been able to pick up our love of travel and enjoying dinner dates, it’s just been amazing.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Sweet Bouquets Cupcakes is a premier wedding and event bakery, specializing in floral buttercream cakes, cupcakes and we recently added more sweet treats to our collection. We believe every order should be as unique as our clients who placed it, which is why pride ourselves in providing one of a kind desserts, custom made just for you. Every order is meticulously hand piped to not only meet your expectations but to exceed them.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
As I child I grew up people pleasing, and though it wasn’t always a negative thing, it definitely does not have a place in my life anymore. Especially as the owner of a business. In the beginning years of my business I definitely prioritized clients needs above my own mental and physical well being, People pleasing left me overwhelmed, burnt out and resentful, leading me to take a break from my business for some time. As I became established not only in my career but also in who I am, I started finding it easier to say no without the fear of feeling like I have disappointed or let my clients down. Letting go of people pleasing has not only been a huge benefit to my personal life but has also given me the excitement back for designing beautiful baked goods, a feeling I once lost
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that even though life will look very different from how you imagined, it doesn’t mean that it’s not still a beautiful life. Each joy, each setback, each serendipitous twist of fate is a brushstroke on the canvas of your becoming. Some days will be tough, and you might feel like the world is against you, but remember, it’s those very moments that will forge your resilience, spark your creativity, and lead you to discover the depths of your own strength
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that leaving people better than I found them matters most to me. As someone who at times have struggled with my mental health, I always want people to feel loved and valued in my presence. I want them to leave my company feeling energized and happy, knowing they matter.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid down my name, role and possessions, what would remain is a loving mother, supportive wife, protective sister, a grateful daughter and a darn good friend. My identity is not tied to what I have accomplished in my business but the positive affects I have made in the lives of the people in my world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.sweetbouquetscupcakes.com
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