Dafne Rodarte Smith shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Dafne, 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?
Witnessing our kids grow-up has been the most joyous experience outside of routines and schedules. We have 3 kiddos. 2 are neurotypical and 1 who is neurodivergent. Our neurodivergent son has autism and as of lately he’s progressed so much. It truly brings joy to our whole family. Watching him become more independent while also evolving into an amazing young boy. It’s a battle that only families with neurodivergent family members understand. Sometimes it becomes a silent battle as many still don’t understand the complexity of autism. Regardless, every little milestone is a win and is celebrated.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Dafne Rodarte Smith. I was formally a published Creative Director now owner and founder of Hi-Line Sweets and Treats LLC.
As a young girl, I loved expressing myself through creativity. I learned that imagination and creativity go hand in hand in order to bring something imaginary to life.
I fell in love with the creative world from the moment I was invited to model for my first Latina group photo-shoot. The chaos of the creative world is what made me want to work towards becoming a Creative Director.
I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most talented people. From make-up artist, hairstylist, models, photographers, producers to business and boutique owners. I had the honor of working with some of the most talented souls. Everyone involved is a very important piece of the puzzle. Without creative professionals there would be no creative projects. Nothing compares to working together as a team to create something beautiful. Team work is what brings an idea into fruition. Some of our projects have also been published in Magazines and that’s always such a beautiful feeling.
Fast forward, I got married, became a mother, moved to a new state, life got extremely busy and suddenly, creating became something I was slowly losing.
It was a challenge to find “my thing” again while also balancing motherhood in a new state where I had to start from zero.
One day, I remembered how much I loved my easy-bake-oven and my love for chocolate as a kid. Suddenly the idea came to me and that’s when Hi-Line Sweets and Treats LLC was created.
My love for creativity meets my love for chocolate. Where every order is customized based on occasion. From simple cakepops to the trendy chocolate covered strawberries tier “cake”. We love serving our community with yummy treats and we take pride in providing wonderful service for wonderful pay.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
On a personal note, as I get older I’ve learned to respect myself and my seasons. There was a season when I was a successful creative director. There was a season when I had more free-time. There was a season where I still lived in my hometown.
As a woman, accountability and self-awareness is very important in order to value what is in the NOW. As I evolve into womanhood and motherhood, I value opportunities, people and experiences more than ever. I accept that most things don’t last forever. We must value our seasons while they are here and release with love when it’s time to evolve.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
2025 has been a crazy year for everyone in different ways and sometimes I catch myself missing the “careless” years of my life. My early 20’s when life was simple. Clubbing in San Francisco with my besties. The amount of outfit compliments I would get walking to the club off Castro. The friendly atmosphere. The vibes were impeccable before 2020 hit. Memories will never fade and I am so blessed to have experienced such an amazing time. Now these memories will be stories I tell my future grandkids.
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?
Aside from my little family, I believe my friends would say what matters most to me is being true to myself. I’m in a place in life where I respect my seasons and allow myself to grow at my own pace. I’ve learned to trust myself along the way and always remain true to my values and who I am.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace at home in the country. Taking pictures of nature, the clouds and lightning during thunderstorms. I’ve never experienced this type of peace before. I am no longer living on “survival-mode” and that’s allowed me to find peace in the little things, like sun and fresh air.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @hilinesweetsandtreatsllc
- Facebook: Hi-Line Sweets and Treats
- Other: Personal IG:
@therealbabyjane
Image Credits
Dafne Rodarte
