In this heartfelt conversation, Keli speaks with Reine Keis, the owner of SweetArt Bake Shop + Café in St. Louis, about her journey from a childhood filled with family cooking traditions to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Reine shares her experiences of resilience through challenges, the importance of community, and the role of music in her cafe. She discusses her aspirations for the future, including her upcoming cookbook and the essence of love and magic in her baking. Reine emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself and the power of family support in navigating life's challenges.
Conversation Peaces:
- Reine's journey began in a family that valued cooking and baking.
- Living in different places taught Reine adaptability and resilience.
- The decision to open SweetArt Bake Shop came from a moment of realization after a job interview.
- Reine attributes her success to faith and a strong support system.
- Maintaining her identity outside of the business is crucial for Reine.
- Music plays a significant role in creating the atmosphere at SweetArt.
- Creating a safe space for community is a priority for Reine.
- Divorce taught Reine valuable lessons about self-trust and independence.
- Empowering other women entrepreneurs is important to Reine.
- The essence of love and magic is central to Reine's baking philosophy.
The Conversation:
00:00 Introduction to Reine Keis and SweetArt Bake Shop
01:41 Reine's Journey: From Tennessee to St. Louis
05:57 The Decision to Open a Bake Shop
08:46 Overcoming Challenges in Business
11:33 Maintaining Identity Beyond the Business
14:48 The Role of Music in SweetArt
18:22 Creating a Safe Space for Customers
20:15 Balancing Business and Family Life
24:08 Lessons Learned from Divorce
26:16 Rediscovering Self in Relationships
26:47 Trusting Yourself as an Entrepreneur
30:25 The Unique Journey of Black Women Entrepreneurs
33:35 The Magic of Love in Culinary Arts
36:01 Creating Cake Mixes and Cookbooks
43:12 Reflections on Personal Growth and Motherhood
48:40 Future Aspirations and New Ventures