LA Sweets NY | Women's Venture Fund

Loretta Calderon
Owner,
L.A. Sweets NY

In the heart of Harlem, Loretta Calderon has built more than a bakery—it has become a destination. L.A. Sweets is a vibrant, community-driven brand rooted in passion and culture and poised for even more growth. Known for her delicious, handcrafted desserts, including custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and signature treats, Loretta brings a sense of homemade warmth and creativity to every product, inspired by family traditions and her love of baking.

Since launching her business in 2017, Loretta has steadily grown a loyal customer base with her bold branding, including her unmistakable pink and aesthetic creations, making L.A. Sweets a standout in Harlem’s small business ecosystem. The desserts are visually striking and perfectly designed to celebrate life’s moments—big or small.

Loretta’s baking journey began with inspiration from her grandmother’s kitchen where recipes were not just instructions but expressions of love and tradition. Today, that same spirit lives in every product at L.A. Sweets where customers say the desserts are “warm, comforting, and nostalgic.”

What started as a dream in Harlem has steadily evolved into a recognized neighborhood favorite, serving everyone from local residents to high-profile clients and celebrities, such as Ophra Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Baby Face, 50 Cent, and food critic, The Real Chef Paper. Rooted in the community, Loretta’s brand stands out not only for its flavor but for its bold presentation.

In 2025, Loretta made a strategic and intentional move, relocating her business from 116th Street to a prime location on 125th Street next to the Victoria Hotel. Positioning L.A. Sweets in one of Harlem’s busiest commercial corridors marked a major milestone. With increased foot traffic and a more visible storefront, Loretta expanded her reach while introducing a more efficient, grab-and-go experience to meet the needs of her growing customer base.

Behind the scenes, Loretta has also focused on strengthening her business management skills. She is an active client of Women’s Venture Fund (WVF), utilizing a range of services to support her continued growth by participating in WVF workshops; refining her marketing strategies to better engage customers; exploring WVF funding opportunities; and implementing operational improvements to streamline her day-to-day business. She understands that growth requires more than talent; it requires planning, adaptability, and access to the right resources. Her journey reflects resilience, smart decision-making, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Today, L.A. Sweets NY continues to grow as both a neighborhood staple and an evolving brand. With a strong business plan and ongoing support, Loretta is well-positioned for her next phase of expansion. She is proud to operate as a Black woman-owned business. Her mission goes beyond sales—she is committed to others who aspire to become entrepreneurs. As she says: “My favorite thing is inspiring others… if I can do it, you can do it.” That mindset shows up in everything Loretta does—from training interns to hosting events to engaging directly with her community.

WVF is proud to support Loretta Calderon and entrepreneurs like her who are running sustainable businesses and strengthening their communities.

To Contact LA Sweets NY please Click Here….

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