Taste The sweet victory of entrepreneurial excellence with The Cake By Dav.
Meet Dav Zalynn, the mastermind behind The Cake by Dav, whose entrepreneurial journey began at just 14. Born in Battambang, Dav has turned her passion for baking into a thriving business that has transformed both her life and her palate. Drawing inspiration from her globetrotting adventures across China, France, Germany, and beyond, The Cake by Dav offers a delectable array of unique designs and flavours that cater to every palate. From weddings to personal celebrations, Dav’s creations are not just cakes but culinary works of art tailored to every occasion. With over 30 wedding cake options and personalized consultations, The Cake by Dav ensures your special moments are sweet and stylish.
What inspired you to found The Cake by Dav, and what drove you to start your entrepreneurial journey?
As a girl born into poverty, I yearned for change and saw an opportunity to create unique designs and flavours that resonated with customers. Starting with offering ‘birthday decoration’ with complimentary cakes, I aimed to enhance the confectionery industry by introducing exclusive tastes and styles. Launching my first cake shop at 16 marked the beginning of my journey, leading to the establishment of TheCakeByDav Co. Ltd., encompassing 11 branches of cake shops, TheCakeFactory, wedding cake rentals and sales, and pastry training workshops under ‘Salanum by Dav’.
What do you consider the most crucial factor in the wedding industry, and how do you attract top clients?
In my view, weddings represent a significant milestone, and my goal is to alleviate the stress of wedding preparation and make the day even more special for couples. A single call and a discussion are all it takes to handle everything. Customer happiness and satisfaction are pivotal in driving the business forward. We cater to a diverse clientele, with a particular focus on high-profile individuals and businesses. THE CAKE FACTORY has established relationships with owners of malls, hotels, and restaurants, and proudly provides our products to a ministry as well.
What was your most memorable cake creation, and why does it stand out for you?
Our “Pandan Coconut” cake has always been our signature creation, symbolising our success. Introducing fresh fruit and natural flavours in 2015 challenged conventional perceptions in Battambang, leading to our first shop after six months of successful online sales in 2016.
As a pastry chef and baker, do you have a sweet tooth, and if so, what are some of your favourite indulgences?
Surrounded by an array of delectable cakes, I find it hard to resist tasting each creation alongside my team’s pastries. Above all, I have a penchant for treats made from fresh and fruity ingredients.
What hobbies or interests do you enjoy outside of your career as a baker and entrepreneur?
Outside of work, I enjoy playing chess, boxing, driving, and listening to good music with friends. Music helps me relax while keeping my mind active, and horse riding helps me stay fit and in shape, providing spiritual healing as I find the wordless connection with my horse to be truly special.
(Hero image and feature image credit: Rithyvong Reach)
