The Brown Girl Bakes, a Karachi and Lahore-based bakery, is the brainchild of Hareem Iqbal, a determined entrepreneur who has been whipping up delicious custom cakes and cupcakes for the past five years. What started as a passion project has blossomed into a successful business, a testament to Hareem’s dedication and resilience.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Strength
Hareem’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Like many small business owners, she has faced her fair share of unkind clients who tested her resolve. These negative experiences, however, only fueled her determination. Hareem found solace and support in her positive clientele, their appreciation serving as a powerful motivator to keep pushing forward.
Another challenge Hareem bravely confronted was harassment from some male clients and delivery riders. Faced with disrespect and privacy concerns, Hareem learned a valuable lesson: the importance of setting boundaries. She empowered herself to cut off those who made her feel uncomfortable, asserting her right to a professional and respectful work environment. This experience instilled in her the importance of clear communication and the strength of saying “No”
A Look Ahead: Dreams and Aspirations
Hareem’s vision for The Brown Girl Bakes extends beyond the realm of online orders. Her heart is set on opening a brick-and-mortar cafe, a place where customers can not only indulge in her delectable treats but also experience the warm and inviting ambiance of a physical space. With her unwavering faith (In Sha Allah), this dream is sure to materialize in the near future.
Sweet Success: A Recipe for Inspiration
While Hareem may not have a personal sweet tooth, She don’t like sweet but her passion for baking shines through in her creations. Her customers rave about her signature cake flavors, a closely guarded secret that sets The Brown Girl Bakes apart. However, Hareem believes that exceptional customer service is just as important as the cakes themselves. Her commitment to building positive relationships with her clients is a key ingredient in her recipe for success.
A Message for Aspiring Bakers
For those who dream of starting their own baking business, Hareem offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: honesty is paramount. She emphasizes the importance of integrity in every aspect of your work, from using high-quality ingredients to maintaining open and transparent communication with your customers. By following this golden rule, aspiring bakers can lay the foundation for a thriving and fulfilling career.
Hareem Iqbal’s story is one of courage, perseverance, and a deep love for baking. The Brown Girl Bakes is a testament to her unwavering spirit and her dedication to creating delicious treats that bring joy to her customers. As Hareem embarks on the next chapter of her journey, we can all look forward to witnessing the continued success of this inspiring bakery.
Follow her on instagram thebrowngirlbakes