Meet Claudia Aponte | Heartfelt Baker & Founder of Camila’s Patisserie

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

Hi Claudia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting Camila’s Patisserie was a deeply personal journey for me. After the heart-wrenching loss of my daughter, Camila, I found myself searching for solace, and unexpectedly, I found it in the art of baking. Baking has always been a passion of mine, but it took on a new meaning in the wake of my grief. In those quiet moments in the kitchen, focusing on the intricate process of creating Burnt Basque Cheesecakes, my favorite dessert, I found a sense of peace and purpose.

Each day spent baking was a step towards healing, and with every dessert I perfected, I felt as though I was keeping Camila’s spirit alive. Starting my own business was not just about pursuing a passion; it was about channelling my grief into something beautiful and meaningful. Camila’s Patisserie became a way to honor my daughter’s memory, transforming my sorrow into an expression of love through each creation. Every dessert I make tells a story, a tribute to Camila, and it’s this personal connection that drives every aspect of my business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art at Camila’s Patisserie transcends traditional baking… It’s a fusion of storytelling, healing, and cultural heritage. What sets us apart is not just the emotional depth of each creation, but also the unique blend of my Latin roots with the classic Burnt Basque Cheesecake. We infuse each cheesecake with flavors that reflect our rich cultural background, making every dessert a narrative of its own.

I am most proud of how we’ve turned personal loss into a beacon of joy and inspiration. Each pastry is a tribute to my daughter, Camila, and symbolizes the journey from grief to hope.

The path to where we are today professionally was filled with challenges. It was a journey of transforming sorrow into something positive, of mastering the art of baking, and of learning to run a business. Through it all, the support of my family, our faith in God, and the act of baking were instrumental in overcoming these obstacles.

One key lesson I’ve learned is the power of resilience and the importance of community. Embracing vulnerability and sharing our story has not only been therapeutic but has also resonated deeply with our customers.

I want the world to know that Camila’s Patisserie is more than a patisserie; it’s a story of love, loss, and rebirth, enriched by a cultural tapestry. Our brand embodies the healing power of passion and the beauty of cultural fusion, inspiring others to find hope and joy in their own journeys.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When my best friend visits, we have a special set of places and experiences that we always look forward to. These are not just about dining and relaxing but also about embracing the unique vibe and culture of the area.

We always start at Grou Coffee + Community. It’s the perfect place for him to get some work done thanks to their amazing coworking space. And for us, no visit here is complete without indulging in their exceptional affogato bar menu.

Italian cuisine is our shared love, so a dinner at Sapore di Mare is a must. The dishes there, especially the Cacio e Pepe with truffles and the Ravioli Pera crafted by Chef Ray, are not just meals; they’re culinary experiences that we cherish. It’s a perfect blend of authentic flavors and creative culinary artistry.

We usually end our night at Happy Wine in the Grove. Their selection of wines is impressive, and the service is always outstanding. The tapas menu is the cherry on top, making our experience there delightful. It’s a place where we can unwind, enjoy great food and wine, and just savor the moments of our friendship.

And last but not least, there’s nothing more satisfactory as having a fresh brewed cup of coffee with a creamy heavenly Burnt Basque Cheesecake from Camila’s Patisserie!!! 😉

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, I’m thrilled to share this. First and foremost, my shoutout goes to my husband Alex, who has been my rock through both the heartache of loss and the joy of building Camila’s Patisserie. His unwavering support, coupled with our shared faith in God, has been the foundation of our journey. Our faith has been a guiding light, providing strength and hope through every challenge.

At the heart of our story is our biggest blessing and inspiration, our angel Camila. Her memory not only inspired the name of our patisserie but also infuses every creation with love and meaning. She is our guiding star, watching over us and blessing our efforts from above.

I also want to recognize the incredible team that makes Camila’s Patisserie possible. My brother Toto, whose skill in production is unmatched; my sister-in-law Emily, whose patience brings calmness to our journey; and my father, Jose Vicente, whose joyful spirit makes every delivery across Miami a pleasure, as well I extend my gratitude to my family and friends for their endless support and encouragement, especially in the early, uncertain days. Their belief in my vision has been a cornerstone of our success.

I’m also deeply thankful to our business allies like Grou Coffee + Community, Sapore di Mare, Books & Books, Il Lago Trattoria (just to name a few) and all 14+ restaurants and cafes around south Florida. Their collaboration has been instrumental in our growth, allowing us to share our story with a wider audience.

And, of course, I must express immense gratitude to the wonderful community in South Miami. Our customers, who have welcomed us with open arms, continue to fuel our passion. They are more than patrons; they are part of our extended family and an essential chapter in our ongoing story.

Every individual, from family members to business partners to our cherished customers, plays a pivotal role in our journey. Their love, support, and faith have made Camila’s Patisserie not just a business, but a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of love and perseverance. Making us SHOUTOUT our love and gratitude for allowing us to be part of your stories!

Website: www.camilaspatisserie.com

Instagram: @camilaspatisserie

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camilaspatisseriemia?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Sofía Prieto