Meet Edith Saldana | Pastry maker & Operator

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

Hi Edith, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
In the wise words of Barry Farber “There’s no reward in life without risk.” If you would ask any of my close friends and family if I am I risk taker, you would be hard pressed to find anyone who wouldn’t think so. To be completely honest, I both enjoy and am terrified when taking on a new risk, but know the outcome has always been better at the other side of it. With that being said, taking on a risk comes with many challenges as well as opportunities for growth. The latest big risk I have taken was at the end of 2022 when I left my corporate job of six years to commit fully to my baking business. I knew that by making this decision I would be leaving behind a consistent income and job security. I had been building my home based baking business for about a year and was growing a good pace. Sometimes I needed to decline orders to make sure I completed my tasks at work, but even then I felt like my business kept pulling me in that direction. The deciding factor came after some structural changes took place at the company I worked for, and I became cognizant there would no longer be room for growth. Instead of staying there, I left and have not looked back since. I am now working harder, longer hours as a business owner and independent contractor, but am more fulfilled than I have ever been. Looking back now, I have realized that every time I turned down an order I was saying no to my own goals and potential, for someone else’s dream. Now I am working with other business owners who share my dream and together building an amazing business.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As many in the baking community I started making cakes and treats for family and friends’ birthday parties. I opened my home based bakery business to the public during the Covid pandemic, as a source of income, after I was layed off. Because of the great amount of support I received through referrals from family and friends my business grew during that year. At the same time I returned to work at the same company, but ended up leaving on my own accord a year later. I am currently in transition from my home based business to working full time at La Princesa Bakery. I have been working with them as an independent contractor for a little over a year. Through this partnership we have both escalated the business and are currently doing custom work for Crypto Arena and Sofi Stadium among others. I believe that what sets us apart is our drive and the attention to detail that our clients have come to expect. Getting here has taken a whole lot of work, early mornings, late nights. It has definitely not been easy, but nothing that is exceptional ever is. I would like everyone to know that everything you want is truly possible, if you are committed to putting in the work. I am a Dreamer, single mother, and have been dealt many challenges. Nonetheless, I have overcome them and came out smarter, wiser, and more resilient on the other side. I am excited to continue in this journey and continue learning, creating, and innovating to continue sharing in our clients celebrations.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend visiting the area we would definitely be hitting the beach. The best thing about Los Angeles is that you can drive for about an hour in any direction and be either the beach, the mountains or the dessert. I would take my friend to Carpinteria beach, this little town is so welcoming. It has beach side camping and many little shops and eateries within walking distance. The next stop would be a hike in the San Gabriel mountains. There is nothing better than reaching a waterfall after a long hike and marvel in it’s beauty. We would definitely grab a bite at La Azteca in East LA, they have some of the best burritos and quesadillas. Aside from day activities, the nightlife in Downtown LA is second to none. Dinner at 71 above over looking the city and drinks and dancing at any of the bars around the area. Lastly, I would take my friend to La Princesa Bakery in Cudahy to grab some delicious pan dulce for her to take home!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I would like to thank my mom and dad for instilling in me hard work and kindness towards others. My dad for teaching me at a young age to always go above and beyond in school and work, and my mom for showing me that unconditional love and kindness can move mountains. I also want to give a shoutout to my brother, sisters and close friends for their continuous support and encouragement. They are the people I turn to when I am doubting myself and need a little push. Without me asking, they are ready and willing to bring my name up for any event that needs deserts. Last but not least, I want to give a big shout out to Juan, Francisca and Jerry for welcoming into the La Princesa Bakery family and giving me the opportunity to bring our shared vision to life.

Instagram: @laprincesabakery323