Today we’d like to introduce you to Meah Chachere.
Hi Meah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I used to cook often in college, so my peers quickly came to know me as someone who not only cooked but genuinely enjoyed it. In 2013, one of my line sisters and former roommate asked me to coordinate her baby shower, which included creating a candy and dessert table. Before the event, I was using Google and social media to find ideas and tutorials to put everything together. During and after the event, several people asked if I had ever considered starting my own business. That moment sparked my interest in event planning—and later, the idea of baking desserts on the side.
I started researching online, following pages on social media, and just soaking up as much as I could. At the same time, I began experimenting with recipes—baking mini cupcakes, cake pops, and dessert shooters, and letting my friends be my taste-testers. Toward the end of 2014, I decided to take a leap and officially introduce my Cottage Bakery, which at the time was called Divine 6 Desserts & Candy Buffets.
In January 2015, I rented a small space and hosted a free tasting event. Shortly after, I booked my first few orders through Valentine’s Day specials—thanks to friends, word of mouth, and growing interest. Once I was consistently filling 2–3 orders each week, I decided to take another leap and participate in my first pop-up. I posted on social media and invited coworkers , family, and friends. I didn’t sell out, but I gained so many insights (lessons learned) and networked with other small business owners.
Since then, my side passion has blossomed into what’s now Layers & Bliss, Co. Over the years, I’ve refined what I offer, and—thanks to my sister Savannah’s not-so-subtle push—I started making cakes in 2017. What began as a fun favor for a friend has grown into something that brings me so much joy, and I’m grateful every day.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Has it been smooth?! Absolutely not! In 2016, I injured my knee and ended up needing reconstruction surgery. At the time, I either had to cancel and refund orders or literally hobble around my kitchen to finish them. That’s when I realized my Terms of Service didn’t cover emergencies—so I updated them right away.
A couple of years later, around the beginning of 2018, I noticed my joy wasn’t in the midst of baking and business. I was burnt out, spending more money than I was making, and constantly feeling pressured to lower my prices just to appease customers. Looking back, that was a sign I wasn’t truly prepared for what it meant to run a business. So, I decided to step away, close up shop, and focus on myself and raising my child.
But even after I stopped, people kept reaching out—asking if I was still taking orders or if I’d do another pop-up. It wasn’t until COVID hit that I finally slowed down enough to sit, reflect, and really plan. I wrote out a new vision for my business, focused on what people actually wanted, and made intentional changes.
I took a cake decorating class from a local baker, completely revamped my menu, updated my pricing to ensure I was truly profiting, and started limiting how many orders I accept each month based on realistic goals. It’s been a journey, but I’ve learned to build my business in a way that works for me—not the other way around.
As you know, we’re big fans of Layers & Bliss, Co.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Layers & Bliss, Co. is my creative outlet and love letter to all things sweet and blissful. I specialize in custom cakes and dessert experiences that bring people together—whether it’s for birthdays, weddings, baby showers, or just because someone wants to treat themselves. My goal has always been to make desserts that taste just as good as they look, with attention to both flavor and presentation.
What sets me apart is the personal touch behind every order. I don’t mass-produce or rush through my work—I take time to understand the occasion, the person being celebrated, and the vision behind each dessert. Every order feels intentional, whether it’s a fully styled dessert table or a simple custom cake. I think that’s what keeps people coming back—the connection and care behind every creation.
I’m most proud of how much the brand has evolved. Layers & Bliss started as a small side project and has grown into something that reflects both my creativity and my growth as a business owner. I’ve learned to set boundaries, price my work with confidence, and create from a place of joy instead of pressure.
For anyone getting to know the brand, I want them to know that Layers & Bliss isn’t just about desserts—it’s about experiences. Each cake or dessert table is designed to add that extra layer of sweetness to life’s special moments. Whether it’s a small gathering or a big celebration, I put my heart into making sure it feels memorable, beautiful, and delicious.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Yes! YouTube provides an abundance of tutorials for different techniques, Social Media keeps me up with trends, and The Institute for Entrepreneurship at Cornell educated me on the ins and outs of business.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies
Contact Info:
- Website: www.layersandblissco.com
- Instagram: Layersandblissco
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/meah-chachere/
Image Credits
Pop Up Photo: Amanda Lee Photography
