Turning Passion into Profit: From Science to Luxury Baking with Elizabeth Solaru

In this episode, host Bunmi Ajibade engages in an inspiring conversation with Elizabeth Solaru, founder of Elizabeth's Cake Emporium and a renowned luxury cake designer. Elizabeth's journey is nothing short of remarkable. She transitioned from a potential career in microbiology to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur, a shift that was unexpected by her Nigerian family.

Elizabeth shares key highlights of her journey, including how winning three challenges on a TV show significantly boosted her business. She discusses the importance of discovering the right niche within the luxury market, setting appropriate pricing, and avoiding common pitfalls like undercharging. The conversation also delves into the critical role of mentors and coaches, emphasizing that the right guidance can accelerate business success.

As Elizabeth recounts her humble beginnings, starting her company with just £40 and leveraging creative strategies like leafleting and cold calling to gain clients, listeners gain insight into the sheer perseverance and innovative thinking that fueled her success. She underscores that luxury branding is more about quality and a compelling story than living a lavish lifestyle.

Throughout the episode, both Elizabeth and Bunmi discuss the necessity of preparation, the power of having a coach, and the significance of knowing oneself to sell to high-end clients effectively. This episode offers invaluable lessons for anyone looking to transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship or elevate their existing business.

Tune in for an episode packed with insights on finding your niche, understanding luxury clients, and harnessing the power of perseverance.

 

Key Moments: 

00:10 Luxury business coach and strategist for executives.

04:37 Pioneer, media presence, luxury podcast host, advocate.

09:12 Transitioned from lab to MBA through networking.

12:29 Started a cake business, secured clients with photos.

14:58 Cold-calling event planners yielded mixed responses.

21:49 Success requires long-term preparation and persistence.

25:43 Struggled with pricing in middle-market clients.

28:28 Finding pricing sweet spot crucial for success.

31:28 Coach-player compatibility depends on personal learning style.

37:05 Coaches should adapt to individual learning styles.

39:32 Invest in a coach, dream big, work hard.

41:25 Many luxury brand founders lacked luxury backgrounds.

48:38 Preparation is key for change; get mentorship.

 

About the Guest : 

Elizabeth Solaru is a multi award-winning luxury business consultant, author, and world renowned cake artist. As the CEO and Founder of the Diversity in Luxury Awards, she is a pioneering voice advocating for inclusivity and representation in the luxury sector.

An ex microbiologist and headhunter who ran job hunting workshops for C suite executives, she began her luxury business journey as a celebrated cake artist, earning international acclaim for her innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Her clients include UHNWIs and royalty. Her creative talent and business acumen led to a successful transition into luxury consulting, where she now advises brands on how to navigate the complexities of the luxury market.

Her latest book, The Luxpreneur: How to Start and Build a Successful Luxury Brand has been described as  "the blueprint for a luxury business" and a "must read for those interested in working in the luxury industry"

Elizabeth has been named as one of the world's Masterful 100 and has been featured on the BBC, Channel 4 and Sky TV. She has spoken in business schools and on some of the most exclusive luxury business stages, including JP Morgan, The Global HR Summit, Ernst and Young and The Inner Circle Experience.

In addition to her consulting work, Elizabeth is passionate about mentorship and is dedicated to empowering the next generation of luxury professionals.

 

Links :

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-solaru-1ba901/

Instagram: @elizabethscakeemporium

Her Book : tinyurl.com/yeert22u

 

About the Host: 

Bunmi Ajibade is the CEO, Executive Trainer, and Coach of Clarole Growth Resources, LLC. She impacts the lives of individuals, groups, and corporations through Coaching, Training, and Mentoring. Bunmi’s strategies include Creating Awareness, Clarity, and Navigating to be more and do more to achieve success. Through her love, passion, care, and empathy, Bunmi has helped her clients navigate, gain clarity and find solutions that will make them live their best lives and become successful. Bunmi has organized workshops, Seminars, led Leadership discussions, and conducted one on one coaching sessions. Bunmi is happily married and raised three successful sons. She resides in Texas, USA. 

 

How to connect with Bunmi Ajibade: 

Website: https://clarolegr.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bunmiaj/

Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/Clarole14

Book a call with Bunmi - http://clarolegr.com/meet