Conversations with Gabriela Otero

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriela Otero.

Hi Gabriela, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my baking career at McLain’s Bakery after I graduated from the Pastry Program at Johnson County. I worked there for 5 years before starting my home bakery in 2020. In 2024, I was approached by my business partner to open a storefront together. We opened in October of 2024 and have been growing every day since then.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road but all the support from friends, family, and the Lawrence community has made it much easier to manage. The obstacles I have faced were overcome by the knowledge shared by others who were willing to help. Opening a storefront added more overhead and managing, but it also added a team to grow Cleo and Leo so every struggle was for the benefit of the store.

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?
Cleo and Leo started as a home bakery that offered custom cakes, sugar cookies, and macarons. The store has allowed me to expand into pastries, especially Pan Dulce. I wanted to use this opportunity to get back in touch with my Mexican roots and bring that to the Lawrence community. We offer Mexican-inspired pastries and coffee, while still keeping the original offerings of Cleo and Leo like weddings cakes and fun mini desserts.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I have always said that opening up my business in Lawrence was one of the reasons it started as a success. The Lawrence community is filled with people who want to support local and young entrepreneurs. North Lawrence alone has been a huge support group for us, we have regulars who have been coming every day since we opened and that’s so special to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://cleoandleoonelmstreet.com
• Instagram: @cleoandleoonelmst
• Facebook: @cleoandleoonelmst