Today we’d like to introduce you to Desire’ Farias.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I moved from San Antonio, TX to San Diego California in April of 2019 as a spouse of an active-duty navy service member. The move was a big transition for me having to start from scratch basically with my career, friends and finding community. I was a special education teacher for ten years at a Title I school, helping students with special needs ranging from learning disabilities to behavioral disorders, so this is what I imagined I would do for the rest of my career. However, the education system is very different here in California especially the requirements for educators which was discouraging at first. I went for almost seven months without working but I currently work at a home/charter school. I wanted to gain employment especially since my husband would be deploying earlier than expected which was September of 2019. During the seven months of moving, I had gained weight and was feeling very uncomfortable in my skin and I just wanted to make a change. A friend had shared how she lost weight doing the keto diet, so I started it during the deployment season and surprisingly was starting to lose weight. I began meal prepping so I wouldn’t be tempted to cheat and baking different recipes to satisfy my sweet tooth. I began taking my baked keto goods to different gatherings and people really enjoyed them and even suggested I sell them. It never crossed my mind to start a baking business but this was the start to PoKeto Heaven.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I feel like nothing good comes easy, especially since I had no knowledge of where to begin to start a business. Even though I received good feedback I still had doubts that I was even good enough or smart enough to be successful with a new business. There were some days that recipes were a total fail but I just kept trying until I mastered it or tried something new. There are so many aspects you have to consider when starting a business and it requires a lot of time to figure these things out and put it into action.
My advice to other young women is, if God gave you gifts and talents, use them! You never know who is waiting for what you have to offer. Don’t stop dreaming. As I grew my business, I had so many women message me about how thankful they were that I offered keto desserts because having a sweet tooth can be a major fail on keto. I never thought of the impact I would have on other people’s transformation but it’s happening and I couldn’t be more grateful to support others on their journey to healthier living.
Please tell us about PoKeto Heaven.
Poketo Heaven offers keto (low carb/low sugar) desserts and baked goods, that equate to guilt-free goodness. Eating my sweet treat or two will leave you feeling satisfied rather than guilty. I offer cakes and pies that are different from other similar businesses, but I also make cookies, muffins and loaves. I love trying new recipes as well, offering seasonal and new items. I take pride in everything I make and honestly bake as if I am baking for my best friend. I have made so many friends this past year because I am a relational person and I am not just about selling products. When I receive such genuine feedback my heart is so happy because I know I am making a difference.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
My faith in God is what drives me to live my best life, so I love to hear encouraging podcasts from Steven Furtick, Leanne Matthesius, to name a few. Rachel Hollis also has given me some great “aha” moments.
Contact Info:
- Website: poketoheaven.com
- Phone: 5125078220
- Email: poketoheaven@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poketoheaven/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poketoheaven
Image Credit:
Breann Clapper
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