Meet Marian Lopez | Owner & Pastry Chef for Mama Cheesecake, creating magic with Cheesecake!

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

Hi Marian, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
I do have a favorite poem that I have read every morning for as far back as I can remember and when I decided to go after my dream of running my own business, it was this poem that helped me to realize… I was going in the right direction; the poem is Our Deepest Fear by Marianne Williamson. Two years after starting my business Rachel Platten released Fight Song and that became my anthem for staying strong. Both highlight the importance of overcoming fears and pursuing my goals with determination. What they both mean to me: The fact that I can integrate them both to give me and show me that I can believe in myself, how resilient I am, and the sheer empowerment both the poem and song lend me. I feel they both highlight the importance of overcoming my fears and pursuing my goals with determination.
Here is what I like about both when I integrate them using the words right from both the poem and song which helps to guide me on my journey. “My deepest fear is not that I am inadequate; it is that I am powerful beyond measure. Like a small boat on the ocean, I am capable of great things. In the face of adversity, I’ll rise-up, unafraid. This is my fight song, the anthem of my journey, empowering me to persevere and embrace my strength. With courage as my guide, I’ll make my mark and be the change I wish to see in the world.” Playing small does not serve the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My pastry art is more than just desserts; it’s a canvas of flavors and creativity. Each creation at Mama Cheesecake is meticulously crafted to evoke not just taste, but an experience, just ask any of my customers. From the indulgent Banana Pudding Cheesecake topped with handcrafted banana pudding and vanilla bean whip cream to the refreshing Hibiscus & Orange zest Cheesecake topped with hibiscus coulis, every bite tells a story of innovation and passion. What sets my pastries apart is not just their exquisite taste, but the dedication to using only the finest ingredients and techniques over the past ten years. At Mama Cheesecake, we don’t just bake; we create edible masterpieces that leave a lasting impression on every palate. I’m most proud of my journey from creating my recipe over 30 years ago and refreshing it to fit today’s trends and be the main product for my business. To establish a successful business, like Mama Cheesecake that has been featured in a magazine (Professional Women’s Magazine) & and highlighted in a show with Gwyneth Paltrow and Tracy Anderson (Sweet Success | Ep 10| Restart Project). What excites me most is the continuous innovation in developing new flavors, expanding into new markets such as Consumer Package Goods, and maintaining a personal touch in all our offerings.
At Mama Cheesecake, my story is one of passion, innovation, and dedication. It all began over 30 years ago when I created my signature recipe out of love for my children and a desire to support their activities. What sets my business apart is our commitment to using only the finest ingredients and crafting unique flavors that are more than just desserts—they’re edible works of art. As well as my history of supporting communities around LA County by participating in events to help raise money for organizations such as low income medical help, cancer support for the whole family, and our Vets, plus more. As an entrepreneur, I’ve embraced continuous innovation, constantly developing new flavors and expanding into new markets like Consumer Package Goods. But amidst it all, I’ve never lost the personal touch with product, volunteers, community, and my customers. Each Mama Cheesecake creation is made with love and care, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience. My journey is not just about baking—it’s about creating moments of joy and connection with people through my delicious treats.
The lessons I’ve learned along the way have been invaluable to both my personal and professional growth. Starting Mama Cheesecake with just a little over $50 taught me the importance of resourcefulness and creativity in overcoming financial challenges. I quickly realized the power of asking for help and the strength that comes from collaboration—recognizing that we are indeed better together. Perhaps one of the most significant lessons was learning to be open to criticism. While it wasn’t always easy to hear feedback on how to improve, I realized that embracing constructive criticism made me a better person and entrepreneur. Keeping blinders on when faced with negativity or doubt allowed me to stay focused on my goals and remain resilient in the face of adversity.
Looking back, I also learned the importance of not dwelling on past limitations or doubts. Despite lacking a background in business or a large savings account, I forged ahead, trusting in my vision and abilities. Instead of being hindered by what seemed impossible, I focused on moving forward with determination and faith. In times of doubt or uncertainty, I’ve learned to trust that a way will always be made. Whether it’s receiving unexpected help from loved ones or finding solutions to seemingly insurmountable challenges, I’ve come to understand the power of perseverance and gratitude.
To aspiring entrepreneurs, regardless of age or background, I offer this advice: Keep looking forward, remain grateful for every opportunity and challenge, hold onto faith, and trust that no matter the obstacles, a path will always reveal itself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Here’s a week-long itinerary for showing my best friend the best time ever in and near LA County area: Day 1
• Breakfast: Park Pantry in Long Beach for a classic breakfast experience.
• Lunch: Lucky Thai Cuisine in Santa Fe Springs for authentic Thai dishes.
• Dinner: Tlayuda in LA for mouthwatering Oaxacan cuisine, owned by two amazing Latinas that I call my friends
Day 2
• Breakfast: Coffee Cup Cafe in Long Beach for a cozy breakfast spot.
• Lunch: Yang Chow Restaurant in Downtown LA for delicious Chinese cuisine.
• Dinner: Casa Fina Mexican Restaurant & Cantina in Boyle Heights for flavorful Mexican dishes.
Day 3
• Breakfast: Nick’s on 2nd in Long Beach for a hearty breakfast and yummy drinks (don’t judge).
• Lunch: Villa Roma Market & Restaurant in Laguna Hills for authentic Italian and Argentine cuisine. Owned by an amazing couple that are friends of mine, Teresa & Chef Leo Razo.
• Dinner: Saint & Second in Long Beach for a sophisticated dining experience with great drinks.
Day 4
• Brunch: Madres Brunch in Whittier for a unique brunch experience.
• Dinner: Yamashiro Hollywood for exquisite sushi and Cal-Asian delights with breathtaking views.
Day 5
• Lunch: Explore local food trucks for a diverse culinary experience. After all you can’t come here without experiencing our awesome food trucks!
• Dinner: Return to a favorite restaurant from earlier in the week or try a new spot based on recommendations
Day 6 & 7
• Explore: Spend the day exploring local attractions like some cool museums, beaches, and/or hiking trails.
• Relax: Enjoy a leisurely day with activities like shopping, spa treatments, or simply relaxing at a local park.
• Evening: Conclude the trip with a visit to Tiki-Ti Bar in Los Feliz for drinks and fun, reminiscing about the unforgettable week of culinary delights and adventures in and near LA County. Sounds like a lot of fun that I may have to go do this coming week, why wait for someone to visit grab a friend here and hit up these places!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It’s been truly heartwarming to know of the incredible support system that I have had standing behind me as I have built my business. No one does it alone! My family, including my daughter, son, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and my other son (grade school friend of my son), have been my unwavering pillars of support, they have believed in me from the beginning, and they continue to stand by my side. Their belief in me, even when others may not have initially shared the same vision, is a testament to the strength of my bond and the power of familial support. Furthermore, the support I’ve received from my extended family, including my sisters, sister cousins, brothers, male cousins, and close friends. Even my 99-year-old mother and my dear uncle who was from Moraga, CA, highlights the deep-rooted connections and encouragement that have propelled me forward. Their belief in me, coupled with their guidance and assistance, has undoubtedly played a significant role in my journey.
Additionally, the support of various organizations and chambers of commerce, such as NLBWA-LA, People Biz of Texas, Gilbert Buchanan of Small Biz Pro and Crystal Mitchell, both with The Business Zone (Podcast), Multicultural Women Executive Leadership Program, LA Latino Chamber of Commerce, Greater Riverside Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Long Beach Alliance, The Product Boss, and Fuller Management Corp (FMC) of Long Beach, underscores the broader community backing that has contributed to my success. Their resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities have undoubtedly enriched my entrepreneurial journey and helped me to navigate the complexities of business ownership. It does in fact take a Village to not only raise a child, but you need a Village to raise a business as well!

Website: www.mamacheesecake.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamacheesecakela

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MamaCheesecake

Other: The Restart Project w/Gwyneth Paltrow & Tracy Anderson with me, giving the back story to Mama Cheesecake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlPhtNLJVmQ Professional Women’s Magazine: https://cdn.coverstand.com/32715/293430/7458042bae64495f95bb12d67197db1cbd5cf85f.12.pdf