Today we’d like to introduce you to Karla Estrada.
Hi Karla, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a former educator with nearly 10 years of teaching experience, simultaneously working in bakeries throughout my time in the classroom to support a sustainable Austin lifestyle. I left the classroom to work and travel in the corporate world, but felt like something was missing. Bubbles & Buttercream allows me to combine my two passions and connect with the community along the way. The vision was crystal clear, a passion project that sat on the back burner out of fear of doing the damn thing. In April 2025, I leaped! I started as a vendor, providing an activity people could enjoy as part of a larger event, the first being Cumbia and Cakes, a Selena Quintanilla-themed workshop. Over time, my business has grown, and I will soon celebrate my first anniversary, now successfully selling out workshops and booking private parties in just 9 months that have passed at lightning speed.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Starting a new business has not been easy. This last year has been a constant journey of discovery and learning new skills – bookkeeping, marketing, etc. Teaching the workshops has been the easiest part and has felt incredibly natural. I enjoy meeting clients with enthusiasm and supporting them in their cake-artistry experience. The factor that has made the most significant difference is the network of women who have supported me along the way. These include fellow entrepreneurs and vendors, network executives, and even social media influencers, many of whom have become close friends whom I can confide in.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Being the owner of my own business is a constant balancing act, mostly because I am the only decision maker. Being an aesthetics and vibes girl has made it incredibly simple to select and style my branding and stay true to it, despite every workshop having a different theme. I serve multiple niches with themed workshops, and as a Latina business owner, I aim to make my luxury service accessible to everyone. My heart is with disenfranchised communities, often Black and Brown, who are, to others, not the “target audience” for luxury experiences. I want to change that! Collaborating with local non-profits and organizations to make this happen fills me with hope, and many exciting community opportunities are on the horizon this year. Every booking or ticket purchased supports this mission and helps make my workshops more accessible to all.
Through my experience partnering with different groups, I have consistently received feedback that they appreciate my authentic approach to the workshops. My teaching background allows me to treat this as a genuine learning experience rather than just a fun activity. I incorporate Learning and Development techniques at every step, ensuring each participant receives personalized guidance and leaves with something they’re proud of, fostering trust and motivation.
Ultimately, my goal is to ensure equal accessibility, support, and success for all. I want people to feel empowered and cared for. In addition to providing a custom service in terms of theme and design, I like to ensure that everyone can not only participate in the workshop but also enjoy their delicious creation at the end. My background working at gluten-free and vegan bakeries has had a significant impact on my business and clients, as I can provide those accommodations upon request. I personally have many dietary restrictions and understand how isolating it can feel not to be able to participate fully. I also want this to be as guilt-free as possible. Austin is full of people who enjoy a healthy lifestyle and worry about leaving with a cake they’ll overindulge in. I am proud to include the perfect personal-sized cakes in my workshop so people can make their cake and eat it, too. A bonus is that it reduces food waste!
What does success mean to you?
My definition of success has certainly evolved as I’ve gotten older. As a former corporate girly, I defined success by income or status. That time of my life was also hectic, leaving me with little time for all types of relationships and craving connection and community. Bubbles & Buttercream has redefined success for me as a measure of happiness and stability. Because of my business, I am fortunate to be surrounded by a fantastic network that supports one another. Additionally, I get to connect with the Austin community & surrounding areas, bringing confidence, energy & something new, allowing deeper relationships to blossom through a shared experience.
Pricing:
- Pricing is handled on an individual basis, as it depends on the level of detail, theme, and participant count. To book a party, please visit my website and submit a booking request via Calendly.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bubblesandbuttercream.my.canva.site/
- Instagram: @bubblesandbuttercream
- Facebook: @bubblesandbuttercream
- Other: https://linktr.ee/bubblesandbuttercream
Image Credits
César Rivera Creative
