Meet Kathy Vera | Pastry Chef

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

Hi Kathy, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When the Pandemic hit, I was one of many that lost their job. But the bright side of this is that I found a dream that I didn’t know I wanted. It first started with taking orders from family and then their friends; as I gain more confidence, I started pursuing farmer markets and growing my name more. Nothing gives me more joy than seeing people enjoy my sweets.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Pan dulce was a big part of my childhood. It’s how I bonded with my grandparents, who only spoke Spanish. I remember the excitement as a child going to the panaderia in the Valley. I will always cherish those memories. I decided to learn to make them myself, and I did but with my spin on the flavor. The first step is putting yourself out there; it’s always scary, but you never know until you try. You are the one in control of everything, marketing, planning, design, baking, managing supplies, and packaging everything. You have to be in all of these different roles. It can be overwhelming and burn you out real quick. Learning to take time to recharge is something I still struggle with but is a must. As a latina that unfortunately doesn’t speak Spanish Hola POP was a way for me to connect with my culture and share a piece of my childhood with y’all.

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.
What I love most about Houston is that its so diverse with culture and cuisine. First stop will defiantly be the many museums in our museums district such as the Menil to see the beautiful art work and the National Science museum to see the fossils and gems. Then stop by Holman draft bar cocktails and yummy bits. If you are in the mood for something crafty you can enjoy little art projects and sweets at Honey art cafe on westheimer or buy cute stationary at Little Craft place in spring tx.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family is probably my biggest cheerleader. My Tio Joe gifted me his used car, which without, Hola Pop wouldn’t be possible. And my amazing parents, Luis and Cynthia Vera, give me constant love and support. They are always there to be my designated taste testers. And my friend Paul Huynh, owner of Viet Nom noms in Bellaire who without him I wouldn’t be able to have freedom to do order for my customers. I also owe a huge thanks to the HISD ROSE (Resilient Outstanding Sister Exemplifying Success) Program. Before Hola POP came to be, I did a webinar for them and their students, which inspired me to put myself out there. I took a chance and started up Hola POP Bakeshop.

Website: Holapopbakeshop.com

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