LaToya Jolly, 48, owns the Jolly Cakes &Treats food truck, which is is known for its cupcakes with the ever-so-sweet icing. And as the city marks its 150th birthday this year, Jolly wants to make the celebration a little sweeter.
During the month of July, she has decided to rename one of her bestsellers, a red velvet cupcake, as the “Magic City Velvet’’ in honor of the city’s major milestone. (Birmingham, which was officially chartered as a city by state legislature on Dec. 19, 1871, is celebrating its 150th birthday throughout 2021.)
Jolly said it’s ironic that the city’s 150th theme is “Built to Last’’ because she sees her company and herself as a survivor, just like the Magic City.
“I feel that I was built to last because after having two heart attacks, I still had the energy and the passion to bake cakes. I think that’s why I’m here,’’ said Jolly. “I think this is my gift from God. I’ve had no formal teaching in baking or anything. It just came to me. Naturally.’’
“I think I recovered (from those heart attacks) to spread my gift – my gift in joy and in treats.’’