Meet Erika Munoz | Cake Artist

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

Hi Erika, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting a business was an unexpected outcome of my creative exploration. I’ve always been a maker at heart. With a degree in Industrial Design, my passion for creating has been a lifelong journey. Over the years, I’ve dabbled in various fields, from furniture design to art direction for film and television. However, I never imagined venturing into the food industry.
It all began about eight years ago when my best friend showed me a picture of a cake she was having made for her daughter. She was dissatisfied with the bakery she had chosen. The cake was a pillow design with a crown on top, and without hesitation, I said, “I can make that!” I fell in love with the process and began discovering new skills, teaching myself through trial and error, watching countless YouTube videos, reading recipe blogs, and studying cake designs.
Throughout the years, I’ve dedicated myself to improving my skills and have been able to cultivate a diverse client base that includes many people in my community, and event planners.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Designing and creating cakes and desserts is more than just a business for me; it’s a passion. I can lose myself for hours, striving to bring my visions to life. I carefully consider colors, textures, flavors, and how to harmonize all these elements. This creative process often takes the longest time, sometimes to my own detriment. Yet, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Weekends, when most events occur, often mean sacrificing time with friends and family. Balancing these commitments can be challenging, however, the satisfaction of completing a design and witnessing my client’s happiness makes it all worthwhile. Even though it hasn’t been easy, I have learned to say no to certain things and have become more selective in choosing my projects. I feel this is a very important part of the business; otherwise, you can find yourself burned out.
Another significant challenge is educating people about the value of dessert making. Many underestimate the effort involved, thinking it’s quick and easy because it’s edible and has a short existence. This couldn’t be further from the truth, especially with the intricate designs I create. Each of my creations is unique, sometimes even involving techniques and designs I’ve never attempted before, which I find incredibly exciting.
Despite the challenges, the joy of creating something beautiful and seeing the delight it brings to others keeps me motivated.

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?
When people come to visit I get very excited, I love Los Angeles and feel that there is never enough time to go around!
I plan my tourists trips based on location. Everyday we choose a different area to be able to cover the most places in one day. The hike to the Hollywood sign is a must, followed by a walk through Hollywood and Highland for the obligatory photos. Walking trough Rodeo drive is a fun experience but I go there just to have a frozen yogurt at Go Greek and macarons at Laduree.
One day is always dedicated to downtown, visiting my favorite place in the city, the Walt Disney Concert Hall. People always get amazed by the architecture and uniqueness of the place. After this is always fun to go to the Broad to see incredible art and then stop by the Grand Central Market to explore different cuisines. And if we have extra time we swing by the Bradbury for a few minutes. To finish the day and find a perfect spot for watching the sunset, I love going to Perch and have a couple of drinks on the rooftop. The view is unbeatable.
My favorite beaches to visit are Carpinteria and Huntington beach, but if you want to stay close to the city, Will Rogers is a great choice. And if you time it well go to the Santa Monica pier and board the Ferris wheel at sunset. If you are lucky you’ll get the most incredible view and unbelievable photos.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband Caryl, first of all, my biggest supporter. My best friend, Teri, who unknowingly ignited my passion for cake design. Also all my clients, friends and family who support me anyway they can, and share their love for my work.

Instagram: @erikakorma_sugardesign

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

Other: email: eksugardesign@gmail.com