Renato Cautela of SugarBears Sweet Provisions Brings Big Bear Hugs to A Sweet Affair
By Cesar A Reyes
SugarBears Sweet Provisions was born from more than a love of baking. For owner Renato Cautela, it grew out of community, connection, and the need to create a space where everyone feels welcome. “My name is Renato Cautela, and I own SugarBears Sweet Provisions in San Diego,” he says. Behind those words is a decade-long journey shaped by partnership, pride, and heart.
SugarBears is a scratch bakery with locations throughout San Diego County, known for desserts that feel familiar in the best way — comforting, joyful, and made with intention. The Encinitas shop has been baking fresh goods since 2013, long before the SugarBears name existed. Originally opened under a different name, the bakery evolved as the people behind it did, eventually becoming SugarBears Sweet Provisions.
“There are three partners,” Renato explains, “three Bears as we refer to ourselves in the gay community.” The name wasn’t chosen for clever branding or trend appeal. It reflected who they were and the kind of space they wanted to create — one rooted in warmth, authenticity, and belonging.
That spirit is summed up in SugarBears’ tagline: “Tastes like a Big Bear Hug.” It’s playful, yes, but it’s also deeply sincere. “It seems to bring people together,” Renato says. “Everyone deserves a BIG BEAR HUG.” Whether it’s a regular stopping in for their favorite treat or a first-time visitor walking through the door, the goal is always the same: make people feel seen and cared for.
That belief extends beyond the bakery walls. Renato and SugarBears were part of last year’s inaugural A Sweet Affairfundraiser benefiting POZabilities, and returning this year felt natural. “I pride our business on being active in the local communities,” Renato says. “I feel this is the best way to grow and strengthen our business.”
For Renato, supporting POZabilities goes beyond philanthropy. The organization provides education, emotional support, physical resources, and financial assistance to individuals affected by HIV — work that Renato believes is both essential and urgent. “POZabilities is a great organization that requires as much support as possible,” he says. “They are a resource for those that are affected by HIV.”
Giving back, for Renato, is not about recognition. It’s about responsibility. “Education, emotional, physical and financial support is so important,” he says. “And if I can help in any way, I will do so.” His words reflect a deep understanding of how powerful community support can be, especially during moments when people feel isolated or unseen.
At A Sweet Affair, SugarBears brings more than dessert, but intention, presence, and care. The same values that shape the bakery’s daily rhythm show up in how Renato chooses to support causes close to his heart.
Because at SugarBears Sweet Provisions, sweetness isn’t just measured in sugar. It’s measured in connection. In generosity. In the simple, enduring comfort of a big bear hug — one that reminds you that you belong.