Meet Erika Alonso | Baker & Owner

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

Hi Erika, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work-life balance has been an evolving journey for me. When I started Cakeology, I was baking from home during the pandemic, trying to support my family while navigating uncertainty. At that stage, there was no real separation between work and home life—every surface in my kitchen was covered in cake supplies, and my days stretched long into the night.

As Cakeology grew, I had to be intentional about creating structure. Balancing business expansion while raising three kids meant setting boundaries—learning to delegate, organizing efficient processes, and prioritizing time with my family. It’s still a work in progress, especially as I take steps to scale the business nationally. But I’ve come to see balance not as a perfect split between work and life, but as a rhythm that shifts depending on my goals. Some seasons demand more from the business, while others require me to step back and focus on my family. The key is ensuring that, no matter what, both aspects of my life feel fulfilling.

At the end of the day, Cakeology isn’t just about cakes—it’s about creating something meaningful, for my family, my customers, and the people I employ. That purpose keeps me grounded, even in the busiest seasons

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Cakeology is more than just a bakery—it’s a story of resilience, passion, and the belief that every bite should be worth the indulgence. Inspired by my grandmother’s treasured recipes, our artisan, layered and naked cakes are deeply flavorful, rich, and memorable. I grew up believing that while sugar and desserts may not be the best food for the body, they are essential for the soul. Some of my happiest memories are of enjoying my grandmother’s desserts, seeing how they made every family gathering feel warmer and more joyful. That’s exactly what I want my customers to experience when they taste Cakeology—a moment of pure happiness, nostalgia, and connection.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how Cakeology has grown from a $1,000 investment in my home kitchen to a six-figure business that has gained recognition from Miami’s foodie community and beyond. It hasn’t been easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I started with no roadmap—just a love for baking and a determination to provide for my family.

The challenges were real. As an immigrant woman restarting from scratch, I had to build everything from the ground up and navigate an unknown industry. While my corporate background gave me the tools to make the right decisions, I still had to learn about production, marketing, and food regulations—all while raising three kids. The biggest hurdles? Limited resources, the struggle of working from a home kitchen, and the need to stand out in Miami’s competitive food scene. But I overcame them by staying focused, adapting quickly, and leaning on the power of community. Social media, word of mouth, and support from local food influencers played a huge role in getting Cakeology on the map.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about perseverance and adaptability. There were moments of doubt, but every challenge pushed me to improve, refine my brand, and think bigger. Now, as I move to a new commercial location and eventually launch nationwide shipping, I’m more excited than ever for what’s ahead.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s that Cakeology is built on passion, bold flavors, and the joy of bringing people together over something truly delicious. Every cake tells a story, and mine is about taking risks, embracing change, and proving that when you follow your passion, anything is possible.

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?
f my best friend were visiting Miami for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best of the city—its art, food, and breathtaking views.

We’d start with a visit to the Pérez Art Museum for a dose of culture, followed by a stroll through the waterfront park. Lunch at Verde would be a must, soaking in the views while enjoying fresh, seasonal dishes. Later, we’d head to South Pointe Park for a scenic walk before relaxing at the beach in the afternoon. For dinner, we’d indulge in the famous star-shaped pizza and a glass of Montepulciano at Mister 01.

Another day, we’d go for a steak at Fiorito, a cozy Argentine spot with amazing flavors, and then take a walk through the Design District to admire the art, architecture, and luxury shops. For drinks, we’d stop at 1-800-Lucky, an energetic spot with great cocktails and Asian street food.

One of my favorite experiences is watching the sunset at The Cleat in Bill Baggs Park, Key Biscayne. It’s one of Miami’s hidden gems, where the sunset feels magical. Another must is dinner at Coral House, where we’d enjoy delicious homemade pasta in a charming setting.

We’d also spend time strolling La Giralda in Coral Gables, a lively street full of great restaurants and energy. One morning, we’d have breakfast at Threefold Café, known for its fresh and delicious Aussie-style dishes.

To satisfy my sushi cravings, I’d take them to Omakai in Coconut Grove for some of my favorite hand rolls. And before the trip ends, we’d have lunch at Motel Café in Downtown, a spot with great vibes and fantastic food.

Miami is all about great food, beautiful scenery, and unique experiences, and this itinerary would give my best friend a taste of all of it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! Cakeology wouldn’t be where it is today without the incredible support system I’ve had along the way. First and foremost, my husband, my mom and my kids—they have been my biggest cheerleaders, taste testers, and the reason I push forward even on the hardest days. Their patience and belief in me have been everything.

I also have to give a huge shoutout to Miami’s foodie community, especially the local influencers and publications that took a chance on my cakes early on. Platforms like Timeout Miami, Miami Food Porn, Miami New Times, ChatChow, and SOBEWFF gave Cakeology visibility at a time when I was still figuring out how to scale from my home kitchen.

Another key part of my journey has been the incredible women who work with me. Many of them started with no pastry background, but they’ve grown alongside Cakeology, proving that with the right opportunity and support, anyone can thrive. Their hard work and dedication inspire me daily.

Lastly, I have to acknowledge the challenges that led me here. Moving back to the U.S., starting over, and building something from scratch wasn’t easy, but those struggles shaped my resilience. And for that, I’m grateful.

Success is never a solo journey, and I’m lucky to have had so many people lift me up along the way.

Website: http://cakeology.miami

Instagram: @cakeology.miami

Facebook: @cakeology.miami

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cakeology-miami-2

Image Credits
Rodrigo Picon