Meet VaKeia Roach | Baker

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

Hi VaKeia, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Seeing the reaction of the clients is great and all- yes that’s the goal. But I do this because I find real joy in seeing the happiness of my client’s guests. Whoever has requested this cake is investing in my ability to provide a quality addition to their event. I understand that expectations are high as this is clearly a special occasion. Not only do I enjoy giving these little pieces of love- I enjoy watching them given. A specialty cake is a piece of joy for the beholder and what really gives me that satisfying bliss, is watching from backstage. It’s the reaction of the presentation, then seeing each guest munching and nodding and pointing their forks at their plate. You can just feel that energy. My cakes are not only beautiful, but they are absolutely succulent. Finding that balance in my work is what makes me reall happy. I feel validated knowing that the project was worth the time, effort and care. That’s the magic of baking… The reaction is the satisfaction. I think everyone wants to feel appreciated and this is the endeavor that gives me a real sense of encouragement. My gentle work has been worth it and hopefully it will leave a lasting impression, I’m talking CORE memory. I want my clients to be able to sit back in their latter years and reminisce – “Remember that time you had that party and that girl make that cake, omg that was the best party ever.” That’s what I’m trying to bring for you and yours.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is that of replication and reconstruction. I recreate the visions that my clients express. I’m proud that I can deliver accurately what the client is asking for. I do give it a little twist so there is something of myself incorporated. Of course I ask my clients if they are open to an enhanced variation, I’ve earned the trust of my repeat customers- we always find a balance between their vision and something truly unique that’s still on theme. Classes and experimentation have helped me expand my skill set but I am always seeking opportunities and challenging projects that will help me perfect my craft. My hardest lesson came after one of my first wedding cakes fell to the floor. That was how I learned how to use proper support structures. I’ve learned from trial and error- testing my recipes on friends and family so much that I think they are getting sick of baked goods altogether. That doesn’t stop them from asking me to bake for their special occasions though. I’ve learned how different quality ingredients produce vastly varied products- there is no such thing as cutting corners at Keia Kakes. High quality ingredients produce a high quality product that I can be proud of both visually and on the palate. I’d really love to see the work I am most proud of being presented on a larger scale.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well of course if you’re coming to Texas you have to get some BBQ so my first stop would be Ten50 in Richardson. They’ve been ranked #1 in Dallas for their fried okra and even though there are plenty of great BBQ places out here, they don’t all spend time ensuring the quality of their sides. Okra is a simple and humble dish but you can really mess it up if you don’t know what you’re doing. I think that mirrors how I do my cake work- I pay attention to all the details from taste to texture to presentation. The next place we would stop is the Legacy West Shopping Center in Plano. There are plenty of things to do other than just shopping, The food court has a unique variety of foods that seem more elevated than simple mall food. With live music and spas for self care. It’s a do not miss for anyone looking to pack as much into one day as possible.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My favorite recipe came from my sister Kamika… I won’t tell you which one; but just know that she was one of my biggest inspirations.  She used to OWN the Thanksgiving dessert table. If it wasn’t for her outstanding recipe and keen critiques I wouldn’t have the discerning eye that I do. The Organization I would dedicate my work to, it would be towards Sickle Cell Anemia Research in finding a cure. My shout out goes to Kamika!

Website: www.keiakakes.com

Instagram: @keiakakes

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