Meet Monica Baweja | Owner & Baker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Monica Baweja and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monica, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea for Layla’s Barkery was inspired by my first rescue pup, Layla. She has always been a huge part of my life, and I wanted to give her the very best—especially when it came to treats. But I noticed that most dog treats on the market were full of ingredients I couldn’t even pronounce. So I started baking my own using simple, wholesome ingredients I could trust. It started just for her, but soon friends and family were asking for treats for their dogs too. That’s when I realized there was a real need for high-quality, handmade dog treats made with love—and Layla’s Barkery was born in 2017! Though Layla’s no longer by my side, her spirit lives on in every pup who enjoys the treats she inspired.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At Layla’s Barkery, my “art” is handcrafting treats that are as beautiful as they are healthy—because dogs deserve something special, too. Each cookie, pupcake, and fro-yo is made with human-grade ingredients, a lot of love, and a touch of creativity. I treat every product like a little edible work of art, because I know how much people cherish their dogs. They’re family, and that’s how I treat them.

What sets Layla’s Barkery apart is that everything is made in small batches, by hand, with a true personal touch. This isn’t a mass-produced operation—we’re thoughtful about everything from ingredient sourcing to packaging. I’m also proud that we’re Houston’s only mobile pet bakery. That flexibility allows us to show up in different neighborhoods and connect face-to-face with our customers and their pups. It’s a more personal experience, and I think people feel that. And now, we’re thrilled to be expanding—Layla’s Barkery will be opening our first brick-and-mortar shop in Tomball, TX this July!

Getting here definitely wasn’t easy. Starting and growing a small business—especially one that operates out of markets, events, and pop-ups—takes stamina, sacrifice, and more behind-the-scenes work than most people realize. I’ve dealt with burnout, self-doubt, and the steep learning curves that come with being a solo founder, baker, marketer, and everything in between. But I kept going because I believed in the mission. Layla was my heart dog, and honoring her with this business gave everything more meaning.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that authenticity matters. When you show up as your true self—whether it’s in your product, your story, or your social media—people connect with that. I’ve also learned not to be afraid to ask for help. My husband, family, and customers have all been part of this journey, and their support has kept me going.

What I want the world to know is that Layla’s Barkery isn’t just about treats—it’s about love, legacy, and community. It started with one dog, and now it’s a way to celebrate all dogs. If I can bring a little more joy to pets and their people through something I’ve created, then I’m doing what I was meant to do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Start with coffee and dog-friendly pastries at Common Bond, followed by a scenic walk with your pup at Buffalo Bayou Park.

On Saturday, visit our Layla’s Barkery mobile bakery at the Tomball Farmer’s Market, then grab a dog-friendly lunch at Every Bellies in Tomball.

Explore Old Town Tomball’s pet-friendly shops, enjoy BBQ at Tejas Chocolate & BBQ with outdoor seating, and swing by our new Layla’s Barkery storefront opening this July.

Take a nature walk with your dog at Mercer Botanic Gardens and relax with craft beers at Kirby Icehouse dog-friendly outdoor area.

Finish with a farewell brunch at State of Grace’s dog-friendly patio and a last playtime at Johnny Steele Dog Park—don’t forget to grab some Layla’s Barkery treats for the trip home!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people who deserve a shoutout, but first and foremost, I have to dedicate mine to my husband. He’s been my rock since day one—helping me load up for events, staying up late to prep, and encouraging me every time I’ve doubted myself. His support is truly the backbone of Layla’s Barkery.

I also want to recognize my incredible customers and local community. From day one, they’ve shown so much love, not just for my treats but for the story behind them. Every kind word, repeat order, and wagging tail keeps me going.

Layla will always be the soul of this business. She’s the reason it all started, and even though she’s no longer with us, her love and legacy are baked into every single treat that leaves our kitchen.

And of course, a special nod to our current dog, Bheem—our very serious (and very spoiled) Quality Control Manager. He insists on personally inspecting every batch with lots of sniffing and extremely detailed taste-testing. Let’s just say he never misses a shift… especially when strawberries are on the menu.

Website: https://www.laylasbarkery.com

Instagram: @laylasbarkery

Facebook: /laylasbarkery

Image Credits
Biyani Photos & Cinema