December 18, 2021 - In today’s edition of TCN’s Vukovar 365 series, meet Lidija Mlinarević, the owner of Slatkoteka, a sweet shop in the Vukovar city centre.
So many times have I heard my friends and acquaintances complain of nowhere to sit down for cake and tea. Lidija is still in the process of acquiring her license to be able to offer a place to sit down, but the cake is ready. Her offer includes traditional recipes, as she says “from our grandmothers”, which are usually rich in walnut and butter and never fail to bring back memories of warm winter nights by the fireplace. Though she built her business on that idea, Lidija does also provide some modern little treats, including cupcakes, cake pops, letter cakes, modelled cakes, desserts on the go, and more. She is always happy to listen to her clients and bake the most delicious and stunningly decorated cakes for various occasions.
She was happy to take some time out of her incredibly busy day and share her thoughts and opinions with TCN.
Tell us about your business, what do you do exactly?
I sell cakes and sweets, including custom-baked and decorated cakes for any occasion.
Where did you get the idea and what makes your offer unique?
I would not really call this an idea, but rather a calling. Some people dream of becoming doctors, police officers, some are called to serve God, while I wanted to become a baker since I was little. The offer is unique not only in our city but in a wider area, because it focuses on traditional recipes of our grandmothers instead of a more modern approach.
What was it like starting a business in Vukovar? What were the main challenges?
In short, Vukovar is my city. I am a mother of two beautiful little girls and I wanted to make sure I inspire them to love the city just as much as I do, along with all its traditions and history. That is where it all started and eventually resulted in me deciding to start my business here. The challenges were your standard clerical little quirks, but it was all worth it. 
Are you satisfied with how your business is developing? What is your perspective for the future?
I would dare say that I am more than satisfied considering the fact that my business has only been open for a few months, though the paperwork is a bit tough. As for the future, I truly can see how much this city offers and I can see so many opportunities in general, but even more so in the tourism sector.
Do you think that the fact that you are in the east of Croatia influenced your success?
I would not say so. The location has nothing to do with it. I really believe that if you love something and give it your all, success is guaranteed.
What opportunities are there in our city and region?
There are opportunities to develop our economy, especially focusing on tourism and gastronomy. We have got such a rich cultural heritage. In our region, I would say Osijek is an excellent example. Rural tourism was developed in a very clever way there. If there were opportunities to connect and create itineraries that would get tourists to experience both Vukovar and Osijek, that would certainly create a better offer and ensure that our visitors stayed for longer periods.
What is your view on other small businesses in Vukovar?
Firstly, I would like to say that I never really viewed them as competition, but I was quite surprised when owners of businesses similar to mine came up to me to start some kind of cooperation. I am happy to work with others.
If we were to implement the Vukovar Card, would you participate and offer our guests discounts or special packages?
I would love to take part! I think that is an excellent, clever, and much-needed incentive.
Finally, tell us something about life in Vukovar. What do you like most, what would you say to all potential visitors?
One thing that I love the most about my city is the fact that I can really see my future and my families’ future here. It is a city with perspective and there is so much to learn and do.
Where can we find you?
My shop is located on Ulica I.G. Kovačića 3 in Vukovar. You can also find me on Facebook – Slatkoteka Vukovar and Instagram @slatkoteka_vukovar.
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