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

Hi Ari, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
I remember that I will always to bake and eat and share with as many people as possible what I love!

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.
When it comes to baking, I just remembered what’s important to me. Flavors! Once you know what’s important to you and stick to that and stay true to yourself, your light will shine and you’ll stand out in your own unique way.

Flavors are just as important to me as the outside beauty of a cake and when I nailed unique flavors for people to love it really made a difference! I had to – and still have to – overcome the challenge of being a perfectionist. When it comes to Art, I don’t believe there’s any “right” or “wrong” way of creating something, it’s simply YOUR way of creating! That to me is what defines art and that is what makes it beautiful. Once I recognized that I was able to focus on areas I wanted to be stronger in like the way I wanted my cakes to look rather than how they “should” look.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This is a tough one but the Citadel in Miami!! I love the variety of food – GOOD food! The vibe is amazing and you can really just chill on the rooftop and have great drinks and listen to live music in the food hall as an option too! 1-800-LUCKY in Wynwood is also an amazing spot for a food hall with Asian inspired cuisine. The Wynwood street vibe really is captivating to me. I’d also take them to the bay or downtown to walk around and enjoy the beautiful city views at night. And Coral Gables (my favorite area) to look at fancy homes hahaha :D. Almost anywhere in Miami is a vibe and we can’t forget Calle Ocho!!!!

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?
I give all glory and honor to Jehovah God! I am thankful for where the Bible has brought me in life. Also, my mother is an amazing inspiration for me. I feel like she’s a superwoman! She always figures things out and just makes everything better. I truly thankful to have her in my life and happy that she’s my mom 🙂

Instagram: https://instagram.com/slicksweets?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.