We had the good fortune of connecting with Antoinette Mathis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Antoinette, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The journey of launching Nina Lau’Rens Cakepops was a gradual progression. Initially, it was a side endeavor while I held a full-time position at a Catering Company. As I began to realize the potential for it to become a legitimate business, I took significant steps in its development. I officially registered my business name in 2009, formalized it with the State of Ohio in 2013, and ultimately transformed it into an LLC in 2017. Along the way, I eagerly embraced every opportunity for entrepreneurship education and training, constantly expanding my knowledge and skills. It was a turning point when I lost my full-time job in 2014, as it allowed me to wholeheartedly dedicate myself to Nina Lau’Rens, turning my passion into a full-time pursuit.”

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Our mission is to bring Elegant Fun to any occasion with our Chocolate inspired treats. We specialize in creating delightful desserts that elevate every moment. From Cakepops to Cakesicles and CakeJars, our custom-made treats are crafted from scratch, ensuring each bite is a memorable experience. Nina Lau’Rens has been in business for 10 years and we are very proud of that! It has not been easy, but it is rewarding! My faith has definitely keep this business going!
Two of my favorite mottos are simply “Keep it moving” and “Quiting is not an option” Life is filled with ups and downs, I’ve learned that you can learn from the good and not so good moments. I’ve learned in life you may have to pivot and sometimes reinvent yourself and that it is OK to do so! Which leads to what’s next for us, along with continuing to create delicious desserts we are ramping up to offer Chocolate Inspired classes! I am so excited about this next chapter in the business!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Monday will the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and then we will do a little shopping at Legacy Village and grab lunch from Black Box Fix Restaurant

Tuesday Afternoon at Topgolf and grab lunch there

Wednesday Dinner at Mables BBQ a Michael Symon Restaurant and check out a play at Playhouse Square

Thursday -Rest

Friday – Pinstripe Bowling Alley and Dinner

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shoutout my Bakery Business Coach, Chef Amanda Schongberg! Bakingforbusiness.com Chef Schongberg is a a certified chef with the American Culinary Federation -ACF
A certified Google digital marketer
She owns an award winning home bakery herself (6+ years)
She has been hired by some of the world’s top brands such as Facebook, Thinkific, Wells Fargo, The Bake Fest- just to name a few
She helps her students get REAL results! (Like hitting 1k days from home. What I admire most is she gives us the tools to win!

Website: www.ninalaurens.com

Instagram: Ninalaurenscakepops

Facebook: Ninalaurenscakepops

Image Credits
I.A.images

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