We had the privilege of welcoming Asher Budwig, the owner of Lola’s cupcakes, to give us a fun, inspiring talk covering a vast array of topics, providing us with advice for both businesses and life in general.

Asher spoke to us about the importance of environmental considerations, customer service and storage upkeep to detail a few. Another interesting note was how Lola’s Cupcakes initial owners were further encouraged to start the business due to the boost in cupcake sales after an episode of Sex and the City, demonstrating the immense influence of product placement and word-of-mouth marketing, even if it comes from fictional New York socialites.

The overarching message was one that is fundamental to our ethos at FHS: to foster our creativity and innovation, wherever that leads us. Even though Lola’s Cupcakes is regarded as a confectionary business, Asher has taken the bold leap to diversify and expand into solar panelling, a step that not any one of us could have predicted!

Furthermore, his growth from selling chocolate bananas at Camden Market to being owner of such a renowned business is especially exciting for the many at Francis Holland who have their own small businesses, inspiring them to take risks and make bold decisions. Overall, this talk was a great success, enriched with delicious cupcakes afterwards.

Lily J, Lower Sixth