Mompreneur – Elsa Mendoza, La Patisserie

Name: Elsa

Family: Husband: Manuel Mendoza, Daughters Natalia, and Paola

Business: La Patisserie. A bakery cafe that specializes in custom cakes made from scratch as well as an international variety of sandwiches, crepes, pastries and desserts.
www.mooresvillebakery.com

How long have you been in business: 8 years in the United States

What inspired you to go into business for yourself?
I have always been passionate about all of the aspects of the culinary experience. I also wanted to create something that my whole family could be a part of.

Who is your mentor?
My mentor is my mom who is an extraordinary cook who not only taught me how to cook but is still my inspiration in all of the recipes I create for La Patisserie.

Advantages of being a business owner:
I get to see my family everyday. I also enjoy being able to experience the joy of our customers when they try products that I have created.

What’s most important when starting your own business?
Be knowledgeable about the field that you want to enter (do not just start a business because you think it will be a fun experience). Before starting a business you need to be aware that in order for a business to be successful you have to be completely immersed in your business, even your dreams will be about your business!!

Advice for women starting a business?
Be completely passionate about your business, that will become your driving force whenever you find yourself working many hours a day. Get your family involved in your business, you will find that teaching your kids from a young age how to be entrepreneurs is the greatest lesson you can give them.