Meet Richard Machemehl | Dessert Visionary & Experience Curator

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

Hi Richard, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting Niky’s Mini Donuts & Ice Cream was deeply personal. It all stemmed from my childhood love of movies, especially Disney films, and the immersive, magical worlds they created. I wanted to build something that captured that sense of wonder—an experience that felt special, nostalgic, and fun.

When my wife, Kim, and I started Niky’s, it wasn’t just about selling mini donuts and ice cream; it was about creating a place where families could make memories. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of building something from the ground up, where I could control the quality and experience. The concept of cooking fresh donuts to order, letting customers watch the process, and pairing that with premium hand-packed ice cream and a colorful, candy wonderland atmosphere felt like the perfect way to bring that vision to life.

Beyond the creative aspect, I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset. I enjoy solving problems, optimizing processes, and creating something unique. I wanted to develop a business that wasn’t just another dessert shop but a brand that people would associate with happiness, fun, and indulgence. We worked hard to make Niky’s more than just a place to grab a treat—it’s an experience, and that’s what sets it apart.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been a journey filled with passion, persistence, and a willingness to take risks. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset, and over the years, I’ve built multiple businesses, each driven by a desire to create something unique and valuable. From designing and installing enterprise-grade networks with Executive Technology Group to crafting a fun, immersive dessert experience with Niky’s Mini Donuts & Ice Cream, my work has always centered around innovation, problem-solving, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

What Sets Me Apart
What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with technical expertise. Whether it’s designing seamless smart home and business automation systems or creating a dessert shop that feels like stepping into a candy wonderland, I focus on more than just the product—I focus on the experience. I don’t believe in just doing what’s been done before. I love reimagining how things could be better, more engaging, and more memorable.

At Executive Technology Group, I specialize in designing flawlessly connected technology solutions that improve how people live and work. Reliable WiFi, automation, security, and entertainment systems aren’t just luxuries—they’re essential. I take pride in delivering systems that work seamlessly, with no headaches for my clients.

At Niky’s Mini Donuts & Ice Cream, I wanted to create more than just another dessert shop—I wanted to build a place where families could make memories. Everything at Niky’s is designed to be an experience, from watching mini donuts being made fresh to choosing fun toppings and sipping on creative drinks. It’s about joy, nostalgia, and indulgence all in one.

What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m most proud of the impact my work has had on others. Seeing a client light up when their home automation system works flawlessly or watching a kid’s excitement as they pick out their donut toppings—those moments make everything worth it. I’ve also had the opportunity to mentor others, helping them grow in their own careers and businesses, which is incredibly rewarding.

How I Got Here & Challenges I’ve Overcome
It definitely wasn’t easy. Entrepreneurship comes with its fair share of challenges—financial risks, long hours, setbacks, and learning curves. There were times I questioned if I was on the right path, but I always pushed forward, knowing that success doesn’t come without struggle.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that adaptability is key. Markets change, customer needs evolve, and technology advances, so you have to be willing to pivot, learn, and grow. I’ve also learned that people matter most—building relationships, treating customers right, and surrounding yourself with a strong team makes all the difference.

What I Want the World to Know
I want people to know that anything worth building takes effort, passion, and perseverance. Whether it’s a business, a skill, or a dream you’re chasing, success isn’t instant—it’s built through dedication and hard work.

For Niky’s, I want people to know that it’s not just about desserts—it’s about creating joyful moments. For Executive Technology Group, it’s not just about technology—it’s about enhancing lives through seamless, reliable connections.

At the end of the day, I love what I do, and I’m grateful for the journey. Every challenge has been a stepping stone, every success a reminder of why I started. And I’m just getting started.

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.
If my best friend was visiting Houston for a couple of days, I’d make sure they got a good mix of great food, fun spots, and a little bit of everything that makes this city special.

We’d kick things off with some good Tex-Mex—probably El Tiempo or Ninfa’s—because you can’t come to Houston and not have fajitas and margaritas. After that, we’d check out Discovery Green downtown, maybe walk over to POST Houston for the rooftop views, and if it’s baseball season, we’re definitely catching an Astros game.

The next day would be all about space and the coast. We’d hit NASA’s Johnson Space Center in the morning, then drive down to Kemah Boardwalk for some seafood and ocean views. If we’re feeling like a longer trip, we’d head to Galveston—walk the beach, grab some fresh seafood, and stop by Pleasure Pier before heading back.

And of course, we’d have to squeeze in some barbecue somewhere—probably Killen’s or The Pit Room—because Houston does BBQ right. Simple, fun, and full of Houston’s best spots.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I have to give credit to God and Jesus. God has opened so many doors and opportunities in my life and has given me strength through both the good times and the challenges. I wouldn’t be where I am today without His guidance, grace, and the faith that has carried me through every step of this journey.

I also have to give credit to my wife, Kim. She has been my partner in life and business, supporting every crazy idea, late-night brainstorm, and new venture. Niky’s wouldn’t exist without her hard work, dedication, and belief in what we were building.

A huge shoutout to my son, Nik, who is not only the face and name behind Niky’s but also my friend and buddy in everything. From the very beginning, he has been a part of this journey, inspiring me in ways he may not even realize. Watching him grow and seeing his excitement for what we’re building together has been one of the most rewarding parts of this experience.

I was also fortunate to grow up with incredible role models. My dad worked tirelessly up until the day he passed away from cancer, showing me the true meaning of dedication and perseverance. My mom has always been loving and supportive, encouraging me in every pursuit I decided to follow. Her belief in me gave me the confidence to chase my dreams. My grandparents were also a huge part of my life—always loving, always supportive, and always encouraging me in everything I did. Their unwavering belief in me helped shape the person I am today.

Beyond my family, I’ve had mentors and friends who have offered guidance, encouragement, and inspiration along the way. Whether it was through business advice, leadership lessons, or simply being a sounding board, their support has been invaluable.

And, of course, our customers—every family that has walked into Niky’s, every kid whose eyes lit up watching their donuts being made, and every person who has supported our vision. They are the reason we do this, and I’m beyond grateful for their love and enthusiasm.

Website: https://nikysminidonuts.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikysminidonutsandicecream/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikysfranchise

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/nikys-mini-donuts-ice-cream-candy-and-coffee-spring