Interview with Kayla Nakano, owner
How did you get involved in this business?
After losing our 6-month-old rescue dog to cancer, I wanted to find a way to help me heal from losing her and to be more connected with the animal (canine). Previously, I decorated cakes for an ice cream shop and knew that I wanted to include that in my new passion. I started playing around with recipes and came up with some different recipe combinations. I contacted a veterinarian and had all of my ingredients approved. Then I decided I wanted every cupcake and cake to look as beautiful as a human one would.
What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
The two major aspects of my business that makes it different is the product itself, and the way I present it. The product is not the typical hard bone or dog-shaped treat. All my products are just like a regular human cake would be — very moist and in a cupcake or cake shape. I use all natural ingredients and have put a lot of thought into dogs with allergies, thus creating gluten-free selections and canine cancer treatment-safe selections that contain no starch or grains. Second is the treats don’t look like a typical dog treat. I take extra special time and care into making every cake look unique and beautiful. I use no dyes so I have very earthy colors but I make sure they are decorated as if for a human.
What do you like best about your line of work?
What I love most about my line of work is that I get to be around people who love their dogs as much as I do. I love that I can donate my time and services to good causes that help animals.
What is your business’ biggest challenge?
My biggest challange about my business is spreading the word. Right now, animal companies are booming but it is a very cut-throat market.
Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
Each product offered is named after an important canine in the owner’s life.
Business: Athena’s Puppy Cakes
Address: Home -based business in Aurora
Hours: varied
Founded: 2014
Contact: 303-319-1188,
Employees: 1
To suggest a business for us to profile, e-mail mmitchell@denverpost.com.
