Meet Keya | CEO/Founder of The Kupcake Barr

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

Hi Keya, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The impetus behind the establishment of The Kupcake Barr stemmed from a deeply personal and heartfelt desire to prioritize my role as a parent. As a single mother of three, I found myself grappling with the challenging balance between providing for my family and being present for my children’s formative years. The demands of a nocturnal work schedule, coupled with the exhaustion it entailed, left me feeling disconnected from pivotal moments in my newborn’s early development and from actively participating in my older children’s educational journeys. It was abundantly clear that this was not the quality of engagement I envisioned for my family.

Recognizing the critical importance of a hands-on, nurturing presence in my children’s lives, I resolved to create a business venture that would afford me the flexibility and autonomy necessary to fully embrace my role as a parent. The Kupcake Barr emerged as the embodiment of this vision, allowing me to actively participate in my children’s milestones, academic pursuits, and cherished moments. This pursuit of balance has not only enriched my family life but has also provided a platform through which I can share the joy of our creations with the wider community.

What should our readers know about your business?
A source of particular pride for me is the creation of the Nashville Hot Chicken Kupcake, an innovation that stands as my unique contribution to the culinary world. This signature confection features a delicate vanilla bean base crowned with a generous serving of vanilla bean frosting, adorned with a perfectly prepared chicken breast, all complemented by my exclusive hot chicken recipe. The resulting amalgamation of sweet and spicy flavors is nothing short of a revelation for the palate, a true fusion of indulgence and intensity.

What truly sets my offerings apart is the spirit of innovation that underpins each creation. I’m honored to welcome guests from far and wide, catering to occasions ranging from joyous reunions to spirited bachelorette parties, all seeking out the distinct pleasure of my original Kupcakes. Additionally, I take pride in presenting an array of alcohol-infused Kupcakes, as well as a dedicated brunch-inspired line, further expanding the range of culinary experiences I offer. These distinctive Kupcakes have garnered a reputation as unparalleled crowd-pleasers, reflecting a commitment to culinary excellence and a devotion to crafting one-of-a-kind delights.

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 I had the pleasure of hosting my best friend for an unforgettable week in the area, there are a few cherished spots I hold dear, along with a couple of yet-to-explore gems that pique my interest. As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, I would curate a culinary journey featuring establishments like Suite twelve25, Roasted, Sedona Taphouse, Granite City, and the esteemed Barcelona Wine Bar. Naturally, a visit to the iconic Prince’s Chicken would be a must for an authentic local experience.

Our days would be punctuated by a series of delectable excursions, each one promising a unique gastronomic adventure. I’ve heard raving reviews about the Butterfly Garden, and it would certainly find its place on our itinerary.

For a dose of cultural enrichment, the National Museum of African American Music beckons with its captivating exhibits and precious artifacts, offering a profound exploration of musical history. This venue would undoubtedly stand as a highlight of our visit, promising a deeply enriching and enlightening experience.

Throughout the week, I envision a blend of cherished haunts and exciting new discoveries, creating a curated experience that combines the very best of local cuisine with cultural exploration, resulting in a memorable and enriching journey for my dear friend.

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 extend a heartfelt acknowledgment to my extraordinary children: Jha’Nyah, Josiah, Jeremias, Jaaden, and Ja’El. Their unwavering support and love have been the cornerstone of my journey towards self-sufficiency and the pursuit of generational prosperity. Their presence in my life has been instrumental, and I owe them a debt of gratitude for shaping both my personal and entrepreneurial path. In every sense, they are the driving force behind my endeavors, and I am profoundly thankful for their profound impact on my life and endeavors.

Website: www.thekupcakebarr.com

Instagram: @Thekupcakebarr

Linkedin: The Kupcake Barr

Facebook: The Kupcake Barr

Yelp: The Kupcake Barr