>> BEST OF DAYTON WINNERS: Restaurants, dishes and sweet treats
Johnson, who lives in the Dayton View area, currently has a home-bakery business from which she creates cakes, cupcakes and other specialty desserts for all occasions.
“I’m grateful to be able to grow in a city that help build what Kia Cake & Co has become today,” Johnson said.
Baking is not only her passion — it helped save her life, Johnson said.
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After launching a career as a teacher and then becoming a stay-at-home mom after her third child was born, Johnson suffered what she called “a freak accident” eight years ago while celebrating her oldest daughter’s 7th birthday at a skating rink. She broke her leg in four places, underwent surgery and could not walk for nearly a year.
Credit: Contributed
Credit: Contributed
“That day completely changed my life,” Johnson said. “After I learned how to walk again, I made a promise to use all the gifts and talents God had given to me and to pursue my dream to become a baker.”
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Johnson also derives inspiration from a younger sister who died four months ago.
“She affectionately called me ‘Cupcake,’” Johnson said. “I want to honor her and continue to make her proud, and I want to create a legacy for my children as well as hers.”
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The 763-square-foot space near Main and First streets will suit her needs perfectly, the bakery founder said.
“I love being in the heart of the Gem City,” Johnson said.
Credit: Mark Fisher
Credit: Mark Fisher
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