Meet Manal Hussein | Bakery Owner

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

Hi Manal, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
The immense amount of work that comes with running a team and creating a consistent product. I went from working for myself with the help of close friends and family to running a team of over 20 people. Not being able to control everything is hard to accept and maneuver. Also, learning that things that may come naturally to you may not come naturally to others. Training can look very different depending on different personalities as well.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Cake has become my outlet for art! I have always been artistic and naturally creative. I am most proud of the product I put out and the experience I have created. Recipe development is art, decorating a cake is art, making a well crafted latte is art. I got to where I am today through dedication and lots of blood and tears. Literally. I was working a full time job and making cakes and desserts on the side. I never had time to even eat or sleep some days. I have faced many challenges and my motto has always been that every problem has a solution. So, just focusing on finding solutions helps me overcome challenges and any distractions that come with it.

I want the world to know that art can be in the form of so many things and what may be someone’s “cup of tea” may not be another’s.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them coffee hopping at all the amazing coffee shops in Detroit and Dearborn! Then stroll along Campus Martius and walk down to the River Front. There are so many amazing coffee shops and restaurants in Metro Detroit!

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?
Hass from Sweets 220 in Livonia is someone I will always appreciate and support. He is a friend and seasoned bakery owner that I was able to reach out to before opening my bakery and ask questions to. He shared information and vendors that really helped me feel more confident and comfortable in embarking on this new journey. I was really intimidated trying to figure out how to sift through things like something as simple as where to get flour from, but he openly shared different places and tips!

Website: www.fortheloveofsugar.com

Instagram: @fortheloveofsugardetroit

Facebook: @fortheloveofsugardetroit

Yelp: For the Love of Sugar