Meet Trishika Tabuena | Business Owner, Baker & Cupcake Designer

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

Hi Trishika, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in the Philippines and moved to California when I was 15 years old. I went on to finish high school then joined the US Navy in 2010. I have been lucky to be stationed in San Diego my entire 10 years of service and I consider San Diego home. I came from a modest family, each member working hard to find better opportunities for our family’s future. I joined the US Navy to take advantage of the educational benefit but little did I know, the endless opportunities that came my way helped mold who I am today. I learned how to be a problem-solver, independent, adaptable, team player and mission committed. Each characteristic contributed to my can do attitude in running my small business. Growing up, I’ve never thought about owning a business. It was truly my luck that I was able to find what I love to do and that extra push from loved ones to actually pursue it. I’m proud of doing what I love, taking baby steps and facing each day with positivity and gratefulness.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Sweetest Blooms Cupcakes offer beautiful and delicious floral buttercream cupcakes for your special occasion! Whether it is a birthday, promotion, retirement, bachelorette, baby shower or wedding, we can curate something special for your celebration. We offer boxed cupcakes, cupcake bouquets and letter or number trays that will leave the recipient in awe. We make everything from scratch – the buttercream, the cupcakes and each design is carefully hand-piped with precision. I am so excited getting to know my clients and bringing their ideas to life especially when they see the final product in person during pick up or delivery! To be honest, I didn’t expect for this business to blossom. I’ve just started watching piping floral buttercream videos on Instagram reels and Youtube videos in September 2023 as it was so therapeutic for me. It became a habit to watch during late night feeds with my youngest son. Later on, I had the idea of trying it out to see if I would enjoy piping and decorating cupcakes as much as I enjoyed watching the videos and instantly fell in love! I thought it would be a great side hustle when time permits but earlier this year I was laid off from my government contractor job. I took it as a sign from the universe telling me to pursue my new passion/project as a full on business. Here we are 6 months later, Sweetest Blooms Cupcakes is an LLC, a registered Cottage Food Operator, serving floral buttercream cupcakes all over San Diego! I’ve learned take things a day at a time: make a list and divide things into manageable tasks, say yes to opportunities and continue to be my authentic self as everything else will work out organically.

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.
Oh wow! San Diego is the best place to be – we have the beach, mountains, sunshine and good food! Torrey Pines has a beginner friendly hiking trail that will lead you to the beaches. A beautiful sight to see and a quick dip in the water is a perfect fun activity. I also love to take my loved ones to the USS Midway Museum to show a glimpse of my time in the Navy. It is really nice experience to walk through all areas of the ship and see for yourself. Depending on your food craving, I recommend the following areas: Old Town, Little Italy or Liberty Station for endless food selection. I haven’t been to this location yet but I’ve seen a lot of photos and videos – Terra Bella Plant Nursery + Selva Coffee House – it’s such a calm vibe to be in with lots of plants surrounding you. I definitely need to bring and enjoy a cupcake with succulent/cacti design there to match their vibe! I also enjoy going to Coronado Ferry Landing for the beautiful views of downtown San Diego or Seaport Village for a stroll and explore local shops with views of Coronado!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my family and friends for the love and endless support they’ve shown me each day. My husband showed me that it was necessary to take risks to achieve something fulfilling. He encouraged me to just take a leap of faith ensuring that I’ll have his support each step of the way. My two kids inspired me to explore the unknown as they do when they learn something new. My mom and mother-in-law teaming up in taking care of my kids during long hours of baking all while cheering for me. My bestfriend who continuously provide encouraging words, helpful suggestions and hyping me up everytime. My former coworkers who provided feedback on all the cupcakes I brought in for taste testing and all my family and friends who continue to show their support by sharing my business information to anyone and everyone they can think of.

Instagram: @sweetestblooms.sd