By WASITA ROYAL
LOAMINA Sahoto, a 21-year-old visionary in the tourism industry, took a leap of faith into entrepreneurship by founding her own company, “Pretty Girl Kitchen”.
With five years of experience in tourism under her belt, Loamina decided to combine her love for food and creativity in this exciting new venture.
“I think my main challenge was time management,” she said.
“I was working at the same time and then I just also trying to start my business, so I had to bake the night before and then deliver after work, and then stay up again baking, go to work, come back.
“And then when I quit my job, it got a bit easier.
“But I always had trouble with logistics, especially budgeting, sometimes you know, customers cancel and we have all these problems to solve.
“But it’s, it’s all a learning opportunity for me.”
What sets her journey apart is the unwavering support of her family and boyfriend, Jeremiah Boiga, who left his role as a chef at the Lae Yacht Club to join her in Rabaul to build Pretty Girl Kitchen together.
The media had the pleasure of catching up with Loamina and Jeremiah at the ENB Artisan Market’s end-of-month sales event.
The power couple stood side by side, highlighting a dazzling array of homemade treats that reflected their shared passion for culinary excellence.
Loamina shared how the idea for Pretty Girl Kitchen was born out of their mutual love for cooking and their dream of creating a space where people could experience delicious food made with love and devotion.
“I started first with baking, it was just a hobby. So, it just started as that,” a smiling Loamina said, adding that whenever she needed extra money, she does it too.
“And then I started getting orders and I eventually got busy. So I quit my job and launched Pretty Gal Kitchen full-time.”
“Having Jeremiah by my side as my helping hand has been a game-changer.
“His expertise and support have been invaluable in bringing my vision to life,” Loamina, beaming with pride, said.
At their stall, customers were treated to a sensory delight as they sampled an array of artisanal pastries, cakes and signature dishes crafted with precision and care.
The dynamic duo’s dedication to quality and innovation shone through in every bite, leaving market attendees impressed and eager for more.