In the heart of Delhi, NCR, a delicious dream was born during the unexpected lull of the pandemic. We have the pleasure of featuring Kanupriya Parnami, the founder of Confection Connection by Kanu, in an exclusive interview. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and mouthwatering treats that have captured many hearts (and taste buds).
With a spark of creativity and just 2,500 rupees, Confection Connection by Kanu began its journey, ready to tantalize taste buds and spread joy through handcrafted treats. Let’s delve into Kanupriya’s inspiring story, dedication to quality, and the delectable success that has followed.
Q: Can you tell us about yourself and how you started Confection Connection by Kanu?
A: Hi, my name is Kanupriya, and I come from a middle-class family in Delhi, NCR. My journey with Confection Connection by Kanu started when I decided to explore my passion for baking during the pandemic. With just 2500 rupees, I began experimenting with chocolates, cakes, and other treats, learning from YouTube and perfecting recipes through trials.
Q: What motivated you to start your bakery?
A: I was inspired to start my own business by a friend who suggested I use my baking skills to create something unique. I saw this as an opportunity to turn my passion into a business and decided to take the leap.
Q: How did you market your products, especially during the initial stages?
A: Initially, I relied on social media, particularly Instagram, to showcase my creations. My fiance helped me set up the page and create a brand identity. I also relied on word of mouth and personalized marketing to attract customers.
Q: What were some of the challenges you faced in the early days of your business?
A: The biggest challenge was the lack of consistent orders, which affected my motivation. I experimented with pricing and product offerings to attract more customers. It took several months before I started seeing a steady increase in orders.
Q: How do you ensure the quality of your products is up to the mark?
A: Every time we prepare a batch of products, even if it’s a large quantity like 100 cakes, I inspect one cake from the batch before delivering it to the client. Despite having employees, I am hands-on and involved in the process daily. I ensure that my employees’ mistakes are acceptable to the client’s experience.
Q: How did you overcome these challenges and grow your business?
A: I focused on improving the quality of my products and customer service. I introduced new products like Pinatas, which became popular and helped increase sales. I also received support from my family and fiance, who encouraged me to keep going.
Q: What is the current turnover of Confection Connection by Kanu?
A: Currently, we are achieving a turnover of around 4.5 to 5 lakhs per month.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment or milestone in your journey with Confection Connection by Kanu?
A: One of the most memorable moments was receiving a large corporate order for Diwali, which included 250 boxes. It validated my hard work and dedication and gave me the confidence to expand my business further.
Q: What are your plans for the future of Confection Connection by Kanu?
A: I plan to expand my product range to include healthier options like date chocolates and oat cookies. I also intend to invest in a website and explore online delivery platforms like Zomato and Swiggy to reach a wider audience. Ultimately, I aim to double our revenue and continue providing high-quality, customized gifts to our customers.
Q: What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs in the food industry?
A: I advise aspiring entrepreneurs in the food industry to focus on two key aspects: passion and quality. Firstly, have a genuine passion for what you do, as it will drive you through the challenges and keep you innovative. Secondly, prioritize quality in every aspect of your business, from ingredients to preparation to customer service. This will help you build a loyal customer base and set you apart from competitors. Also, be prepared for hard work and long hours, especially in the initial stages of your venture.
