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

Hi Rachel, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Blake Pops is a home based business so balancing my work and personal life can be challenging at times, but it is SO important! I try my best to make a weekly schedule and stick with it. Making a business to-do list and a home to-do list is essential for me. I find that if I am able to see everything that is on my plate at the beginning of the week then I am more productive with my work time and more intentional with my personal time.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the owner of Blake Pops which is a cake pop business located in Austin, Texas that caters to many events such as weddings, birthday parties, and holiday celebrations. I turn themes and special moments into edible bite-sized treats for all to enjoy! When I took the leap to start Blake Pops a few years ago I knew absolutely nothing about owning a business. It took a lot of trial and error to get to where I am now. I have learned about the importance of valuing my time and work, how to stay organized, and I’ve made incredible friendships too! If I could offer any advice to someone who has a dream of running their own small business, I would say make sure you surround yourself with people who build you up and encourage you. I never would have started Blake Pops if it wasn’t for my support system cheering me on and walking alongside me as I learned. I love that I get to be a part of my customers’ special moments and celebrating their big days with them! I don’t know exactly what is in store for Blake Pops this next year, but I am excited to see where we go!

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.
There are so many exciting things to do in Austin such as kayaking down Lady Bird Lake, having a picnic in Zilker Park, or eating at one of the many delicious restaurants here! Some of my favorite things to do include hiking along Onion Creek with family/friends, sipping iced coffee from Summermoon, or grabbing a sweet treat from Bougies Donuts (blueberry donut is the way to go)!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate my shout out to my Mind Cake Vault teacher/mentor, Tiffany! She is an incredibly talented baker, business coach, and artist that has taught me how to run a successful business, pushes me creatively, and inspires so many people with her work!

Website: www.blakepops.com

Instagram: @BlakePops

Image Credits
Morgan Higgins, Turning Leaf Photography

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