Today we’d like to introduce you to Melyssa Aguirre
Hi Melyssa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started this small business when I was 18 years old. During the pandemic, I had started my first year of college online for business management/entrepreneurship. Around this same time I began to notice the lack of Peruvian cuisine in Nashville and this is what initiated my journey as a baker.
I created an instagram account under the name Sugary Dulces and I would post chocolate covered strawberries, Peruvian alfajores, & chocotejas for special holidays or birthday’s. It started off as a hobby, family and friends would order from me, and suddenly I started receiving orders from followers or people who would find me online. Ever since, I have decided to push myself in joining local farmer’s markets such as Cosecha, Hip Donelson, and Amqui Station in order to pursue my dream.
Fast forward to today, I attend multiple markets all across Nashville sharing Peruvian cuisine with the world and with the goal to open my first brick & mortar café in the next couple of years.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say the hardest struggles started when I decided to create a business. I was fresh out of high-school, covid had basically ruined my senior year due to being online, and entering my first year of college online was not how I imagined it. I was becoming an adult and trying to understand myself as a woman. I knew I wanted to start a business, but I was struggling to find what I was passionate about.
We almost became a candle business. I watched millions of videos on candle making and even bought a candle making kit box.
I had a lot of trouble figuring out what I could base my business around. It took a lot of inner work, exploring my interests, and what I was really passionate about. My very first pop up consisted of me selling various flavors of cookies sometimes adding a touch of my Peruvian culture by making alfajores, empanadas, etc.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Taste de Lima?
Taste de Lima is a Latina-owned business specializing in handcrafted baked empanadas and pastries. Every item is made from scratch in small batches, using simple, high-quality ingredients. From our dough to our house-made dulce de leche, we ensure freshness and flavor with every bite. Our commitment to freshness and quality means every product is prepared with care and delivered fresh to our customers, offering them the very best in every bite.
I would say what sets me apart from others would have to be my age. I started this small business when I was 18 years old and I’m currently 21. I knew I wanted to start a business from a young age, but the question for me was always what kind of business. I do mostly everything myself with a little help from my mom, sister, and step-dad on empanada days, so in a way you could call it family owned. I am most proud of the fact that I have created pastries that people continuously want to come back and experience. Seeing the smiles of families and knowing the memories they are making is what truly brings me fulfillment and happiness.
At Taste de Lima bakery, we offer a seamless blend of delicious Peruvian cuisine or an array of freshly baked goods, paired with professional presentation and personalized attention to detail. Whether you’re looking for traditional flavors or unique, handcrafted pastries, we ensure every dish is made from scratch and tailored to your event. Let us bring the taste of Peru to your table, creating memorable experiences for you and your guests.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was always a shy kid. Family members would tell me I’d grow out of it, just like baby fat, but the shyness followed me throughout high school. After graduating and starting to better understand myself, I realized much of it stemmed from childhood anxiety and past trauma. Selling at farmer’s markets has been a game-changer for me. Interacting with so many people has helped me practice my conversation skills, and I’ve come to enjoy chatting with my regular customers. If I could tell my 18-year-old self what I’m doing now, I’d be in complete disbelief.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tastedelima.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tastedelima
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556917019535
