Meet DMV area baker, Sandtruis Lucas of Suga Honey Coco Cakes
Sandtrius, how about we start with some details abour you and your business?
My name is Sandtrius (Sandy) Lucas I was born & raised in Washington DC area. I’m a proud mother of 3 beautiful black kids. I have been working for a hotel for 20 years in the food and beverage industry. My business name is SugaHoneyCocoCakes. I love baking and cooking for my family.
I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur, the hardest part was deciding what kind to be. I’ve always had passion for a few things growing up. I promised myself that I would accomplish my list. In November 2019 I completed Makeup Artistry with Bennett Career Institute. The following year the pandemic started. I was forced to take a seat with makeup because I was afraid of becoming sick with having an underline health condition of asthma. I started making shortcakes in July of 2020, it skyrocketed from social media. It was something to do as a hobby to keep from going crazy and it turned into something way bigger. It was absolutely amazing.
As a Black Woman Entrepreneur, how have your cultural background and experiences influenced your approach to entrepreneurship, and what is your inspiration to keep going?
When I started my business I saw so many businesses going down, watching them not be able to survive during the pandemic was mind blowing to me. It made me realize that I always needed a plan B to assure I always had a way to keep going. I paid close attention to details and request from customers. During this time people wanted to know that they matter. If you wanted to get support from the community you had to know how to give it back your survival depended on it.
My inspiration are my kids. My two boys Eric 18, Elijah 14 and my daughter SaNarii who is 2 years old. They motivate me to keep going no matter what. I’m able to stay connected by looking into their eyes and showing them that you can be and do anything you want to be in life. There does not have to be a limit on how many things you can do.
At Soigne’+Swank Magazine, we make it our business to highlight and promote positive, uplifting, and meaningful examples of black excellence. What does black excellence mean to you and what advice would you give your younger self?
Black excellence to me means accomplished, focused, & confident. The advice I would give my younger self is stay focused, don’t sweat the small stuff. Make your accomplishments list and start knocking them out ASAP.
We can’t wait to try your cakes! Tell us what’s next for you and how readers can connect with your business.
I’m working on getting a Cupcake Food Truck. I wanna be able to drive around & expand my business in different areas. You can find me on social media @SugaHoneyCocoCakes.