Alumni Spotlight — Jenefer Taylor ('08)
Current City: Malibu, California
Hometown: Orinda, California
Graduation Year: 2008
Major: Broadcast Journalism, Minor in French
Occupation: Owner, BLUEM Malibu Bakery
Why did you choose to attend Pepperdine? I was torn between California and the East Coast, but the moment I visited Southern California, something in me shifted. The stars in the sky, the smell of the ocean, and the palm trees rustling in the wind...it all felt like home. Pepperdine’s stunning campus sealed it for me, and the fact that it was close to my family made it even more special. It offered not just a beautiful place to study but also a feeling of belonging and inspiration I couldn’t ignore.
Describe Pepperdine in three words: Home. Beauty. Growth.
Describe your career path: Unexpected. I traveled the world for music right after graduation and dabbled in acting, but my heart wasn't in it. I did some fashion blogging and worked as a private chef. My business literally just fell into my lap out of doing the things I love most—gardening, creating beauty, and being inspired by my dogs, especially Blueberry.
What is your greatest professional accomplishment as of now? Building BLUEM MALIBU from the ground up. It's more than just cake; it's a reflection of my values, my creativity, and my willingness to grow through every challenge with heart.
How did your time at Pepperdine prepare you for what you are doing today? Being at Pepperdine gave me the foundation to build something meaningful and to do it with purpose and integrity.
Here’s where you can write anything else that you’d like to share with the Pepperdine community! My biggest life lesson has been to get still. When I close my eyes, meditate, and listen to my inner guidance system, it leads the way. I've learned to trust my gut more than anything and to protect my energy as the most sacred thing on this planet. And THAT is what brings me the most success in every aspect of my life.
Jenefer is now selling her products in Vintage Grocers, and offers a 15% discount for Pepperdine students with a Pepperdine ID!
Connect with Jenefer: @bluemmalibu