20 under 40: Lela Weeks

Lela Weeks, 36 

Owner, Homemade by Lala  

Meet Lela Tyler Weeks, the creative force behind Homemade by Lala. Currently residing in Hartselle for the past three years, Lela’s journey is a delightful blend of culinary expertise, family love and entrepreneurial spirit. 

Lela’s story begins in Falkville, her hometown, where her passion for creating delectable treats took root. In 2011, she embarked on an exciting adventure, relocating to Orlando to join the magical world of Walt Disney World. Over the course of a decade, Lela carved out a career, enchanting guests in the parks and resorts with her sweet and savory creations. 

The turning point came during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting Lela to channel her culinary talents into something extraordinary. Thus, Homemade by Lala was born, initially operating from the confines of her apartment. Fueled by determination and a love for her craft, Lela and her husband made the pivotal decision to return to their roots in 2021 and establish a brick-and-mortar shop. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Lela finds fulfillment in her role as a wife and mother. Married to Brenton, she cherishes precious moments with their son, who turned one in January. 

In addition to her culinary prowess, Lela enjoys a variety of hobbies, including reading, crocheting and quality time with her family. Whether she’s engrossed in a good book, working on a crochet project, or delighting in playtime with her son, Lela embraces the simple joys of life. 

A fun tidbit from Lela’s past includes her time working in Epcot for two Festivals of the Holidays, where she achieved the remarkable feat of crafting over a quarter of a million cookies.