Allies for All: Cat Polivoda takes the Cake

Our Allies for All blog posts shine a spotlight on individuals and organizations in our community that are helping make our world a more welcoming place for everyone. In these profiles we explore what the word “welcome” means, appreciate the inspiring things happening in our community, and learn about the creative ways that we can continue moving forward together. We’re sharing these stories to celebrate our community, inspire others, and show the power of a message turned into actions big and small.



Today’s Feature 

Cat Polivoda: Entrepreneur, podcast host, and activist

WRITTEN BY PAIGE DRESOW // PHOTOS BY SHUTTERSMACK

Cat Polivoda is spreading inclusion, body acceptance, and badassery all over the Twin Cities and beyond. When Cat opened Cake Plus-Size Resale in 2017, she not only made a home for plus-size fashion in Minneapolis, but created an accepting, fat-positive community no matter who you love, which pronouns you use, or where you are from.

While the clothes are the first thing customers see, the welcoming atmosphere at Cake has become a big part of the store's growing popularity in person and online.

“For us, it’s not just about the clothes. We work hard to be a welcoming environment for all identities as a space that pushes back against fatphobia, homophobia, transphobia, racism, sexism, and other systems of oppression.”

Sharing her love of fashion and understanding of how to style plus-size bodies, Cat’s one-on-one styling sessions are in high demand. Based on your goals, Cat can help you dress and feel your best. Often her one-on-one sessions include coaching to help clients incorporate body positivity into their daily life or strategies for body hang-ups they've been feeling.

“I am only one woman. But, I want to do my part in spreading support, love, information, and validation to others -- especially other curvy/plus-size/fat women and also those in other marginalized groups.”

Beyond Cake, Cat has a podcast with co-host Saraya Boghani called Matter of Fat where they highlight all things fat liberation to both a local and worldwide audience. Their podcasts feature a diverse range of guests -- both influencers and everyday people -- that are not afraid to confront beauty standards and the social constructs behind them all while promoting body positivity and love. You can listen to Cat’s podcast here: https://soundcloud.com/matteroffatpod



What does the word "welcome" mean to you?

“Come as you are! We value you here!”



Cat also developed and teaches a virtual e-course, Big, Bold Confidence, for plus-size/curvy/fat folks to build and grow confidence. While registration for this month's session is already closed, you can find out more on her website and get on the waitlist for a future session at https://www.catinspired.com/bigbold.

“I am challenging myself to take more time to engage with people who aren’t in a fat positive space quite yet but are craving body love and body positivity in their lives.”

During the COVID-19 crisis, Cake's storefront is temporarily closed, but you can still shop the latest looks on Cake’s website or on Cake’s Instagram -- including the newest trends in swimwear! Cat's also offering Virtual Style Chats, a fun opportunity for you to ask Cat ANYthing style related with 30 minute and a 90-minute video chat or phone call options. Learn more and book online at https://www.cakeplussize.com/stylesessions

"During this uncertain time, it’s important that we support each other. Be safe, stay home, and shop online! All of us at Cake miss you!"

 


Nominate an Ally for All

Help us celebrate the incredible individuals and organizations that are turning the All Are Welcome Here message into action in our community. Nominate as many people as you like (even yourself, we won’t tell). Selected Allies for All receive:

  • $100 donation to a cause they love
  • An interview and photoshoot to be featured on the All Are Welcome Here blog and social media
  • Free All Are Welcome Here swag
Nominate an ally

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