Layer’d in Love started as a passion project, but it quickly became something far greater than I ever imagined. Before becoming a full-time home baker, I pursued architectural interior designing, practicing in the field for five years. Baking wasn’t even part of my plan—it all began with a simple food page showcasing my baking and cooking experiments. Thanks to the incredible community in Bhopal, I started receiving cake order inquiries. That’s when I decided to create my first menu, featuring a build your own cake concept. Fast forward four years, and Layer’d in Love now boasts over 40 flavors, a wide variety of baked goodies, and countless cherished moments creating cakes for all kinds of occasions. What surprises most people is that I’m entirely self-taught. I’ve never taken formal baking or cake decorating classes. My love for baking stems from my childhood, watching my mother bake with my brother and me by her side. Maa and I would spend hours watching baking shows together, and that’s where I absorbed so much of what I know today. Maa taught me to pray to the Annapurna Goddess before cooking, a ritual I follow every single time I step into the kitchen. I truly believe it’s her blessings, along with Maa Annapurna’s, that allow me to bake the way I do. Baking is my therapy—a source of peace and joy—and making food for others, especially children, is truly my favorite part of the journey. My family has been my biggest support system. My father is my number-one cheerleader, always the first to see my creations, and his encouragement never fails to make me smile. My elder brother has been my backbone through it all, ensuring Layer’d in Love could thrive. Hearing people in Bhopal say that I’ve changed the cake trend here is one of the greatest compliments I could ever receive. From being an amateur baker to now being known as Aakriti Khanna, a luxury cake artist, this journey has been incredible. Layer’d in Love wouldn’t be what it is today without the love of my family, my loyal clients, and this amazing community.