What began as a home-based passion grew into an established storefront for Alejandra Zapien, owner of Aleza Bakery. Zapien started her business by selling pastries from her kitchen and at local markets, quickly earning a dedicated following. Determined to expand, she sought guidance from the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center to navigate the challenges of securing a location, lease agreements, and commercial kitchen requirements.
With the help of Business Advisor Emily Beesley, Zapien identified the ideal location in Yukon. The Oklahoma SBDC provided support ranging from demographic research and lease review to health department guidance and business tool setup. This hands-on assistance gave Zapien the confidence and clarity to move forward, sign the lease, and secure a physical location for their business.
Aleza Bakery celebrated its new storefront with a ribbon-cutting and growing customer base. The bakery also launched a website and Google Business profile, allowing customers to order online and discover the shop more easily. Zapien and her husband, who has since joined the family business full time, are living their dream of turning passion into a community-rooted enterprise.
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