Accolades

Local Stories | August 11, 2025

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Leslie.

Hi Amanda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always loved to bake, but it really started in 2020 during COVID. From there, I began baking more for family and friends. My husband is in the military, and in 2021, we were stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Prior to that, I had a career as a phlebotomist and had been waitressing since I was a teenager. Moving to Japan, working in those fields wasn’t really an option. As a military family, moving every few years makes it hard to put down roots anywhere. So, this felt like the perfect time for me to get creative. My time in Okinawa was dedicated to being a stay at home mom, and learning as much as I could to gain experience with my baking and decorating. Now that we’re here in San Diego, I told myself, this is it. I’m taking the steps to do something I love. I can take my baking with me wherever we go. So here I am, making a dream of mine come true.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Overall, it’s been a smooth journey. I think my biggest obstacle has been taking the leap on making it all official. I critique myself so much, and that has held me back a bit. I really try not to put too much pressure on myself. Baking and decorating is something where, no matter how good you get, there’s always more to learn and room for improvement. I’m really big on supporting others. I have a list of other local bakers that do great work. If I am booked or there is a custom order I don’t feel I can deliver 100% on, I’ll refer them to someone on my list! There is room for everyone at the (dessert) table.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and chocolate-covered treats. I get a lot of compliments on my cookies, and mini loaf cakes. The mini cakes are a perfect option when a cake is too much, but a cupcakes just isn’t enough. What sets me apart is how personal each order is to me. I’ve been chosen to help make someone’s event special, and I value that. I love having the opportunity to be a part of those moments. My goal is simple, deliver quality desserts to elevate any occasion.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If there’s something you want to do and fear is holding you back—just do it. What do you have to lose? Either you try and succeed, or you try and fail. But if you don’t do either, you’ll always wonder what if? Especially within the military community, you live in a constant state of the unknown. Things change so often, and it can be really frustrating. That alone can keep you stuck in the mindset of “I’ll wait until the timing is right.” But the timing is never going to be perfect, you just learn to adapt in all situations. Having my family by my side and being able to bake wherever we go will always bring me a sense of comfort and familiarity. I’m thankful for the opportunities that I’ve had, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. On top of custom orders, I really look forward to getting more involved in local pop-up events and farmers markets!

https://sdvoyager.com/interview/life-work-with-amanda-leslie-of-lakeside/