Sean A. Russell sits down with Bunnie Cakes founder Mariana to explore the heartfelt story behind one of Miami’s most iconic Vegan brands. Mariana shares how her journey began with her children’s dairy allergies and grew into a business that filled a major gap in Miami’s dessert market. She opens up about closing her retail store in 2020, the spark that led to the Ready to Bake cupcake batter line, and the courage required to expand into the national CPG space. This episode is full of lessons on intuition, persistence, and staying true to your passion.
How Bunnie Cakes Started in a Home Kitchen
- Baking to meet her children’s needs
- Identifying a gap in the market
- Selling through local cafes and restaurants
Growing Into a Miami Staple
- Opening retail stores
- Building a strong brand rooted in magic, detail, and love
The 2020 Turning Point
- Closing retail during the pandemic
- The soap dispenser moment that sparked a new idea
- Rethinking the brand’s future
Launching the Ready to Bake Line
- Creating a convenient product for busy families
- Expanding distribution nationwide
- What the CPG journey has taught her
Advice for Entrepreneurs
- Listening to your intuition
- Staying patient during early failures
- Asking the right people for help
- Remaining open to feedback
Where to Find Bunnie Cakes Today
- Bakery website and online ordering
- Ready to Bake products and new retail placements
- Social media handles
About the Show
The Vegans Explore Podcast is on a mission to record a new episode every day until November 1, 2026, spotlighting Vegan topics, changemakers, nonprofits, and brands from around the world. Explore additional episodes.
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