Kristina Lavallee’s journey from a mobile food truck to a national franchise is a masterclass in persistence and strategic growth. As the founder of The Cake Girl, she has turned a passion for baking into a thriving business that serves thousands. Proof that sharp business instincts and adaptability can drive success in the competitive food industry.
Born in Puerto Rico and later establishing her brand in Tampa, Lavallee stepped into a market where Latina entrepreneurs in leadership roles were scarce. Yet, her creations quickly gained traction, landing high-profile orders, including a custom cake for Tom Brady that made headlines. Over time, she has baked for business moguls like Daymond John and Marcus Lemonis, as well as Hollywood stars like Jason Momoa, cementing her status as a leading cake artist.
"I refused to let anyone box me in," she says with Puerto Rican pride. "My roots, my hustle—those are my ingredients for change."
Scaling a Local Business into a National Brand
When the pandemic disrupted businesses nationwide, Lavallee adapted, shifting her operations to sustain and expand The Cake Girl. Her resilience and strategic moves set the stage for national growth. Features on The Today Show, Telemundo, and other major platforms amplified her brand, paving the way for franchising.
With plans to open 50 locations by 2030, Lavallee sees expansion as more than just business growth, it’s about creating opportunities. “I’ve felt the sting of being overlooked,” she says. “Now, I’m lighting the way for others to shine.”
But growth hasn’t pulled her away from the community. She remains committed to supporting local organizations and frontline workers. "Community is the heartbeat of my work," she reflects. "It's where I find my why."
A Tribute to Women’s History Month
Lavallee’s success illustrates the impact of women in business, especially those carving out space in industries where they were once underrepresented. As Women’s History Month celebrates women and female leaders, her story serves as a reminder that perseverance and innovation continue to push boundaries.
By building a national brand from the ground up, she embodies the spirit of women redefining their fields. As she balances innovation with expansion, Lavallee remains focused on keeping The Cake Girl synonymous with quality and accessibility.
“We’re not just making history,” she says with conviction. “We’re baking it—one dream at a time.”