Hi everyone, I’m Amanda! I am a pastry chef located in Northern Virginia, living my dream by opening my very own bakery! 

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Most of my life has been spent in the kitchen; some of my earliest memories were “helping” my grandmother bake meringues.  Of course, by helping, I mean sitting on the counter, occasionally being allowed to stir something, but ultimately being around to lick the spoon.  I had no idea how much of an impact these moments in the kitchen would have on my life.  As a child, if I wasn’t in the kitchen making something, I was watching cooking shows and getting ideas for what I would create next.  Once I reached high school, I had the chance to take culinary arts classes.  Being able to take these classes in school helped strengthen my skills, and even gave me the opportunity to compete in (and win!) several culinary competitions.

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I found my passion for baking and pastry, and decided I wanted to pursue a culinary career. I attended Johnson & Wales University in Miami, nearly a thousand miles away from home. I earned an associate degree in Baking & Pastry Arts and a bachelor’s degree in Food Service Management. I continued my education in the form of a Master’s of Science in Business Administration, with a concentration in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Virginia Tech.  After graduating, I decided to pursue a role in hospitality management.  Once I settled into my previous position as a manager at Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast Inn, I was able to return my focus to my true passion: baking.  

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At Briar Patch, I was able to serve breakfast to new and returning guests, as well as afternoon sweets to wedding parties. I was so happy to receive positive feedback from a variety of clients and guests; the great responses I received only reaffirmed my dream of owning my own bakery.  

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Thank you to all of my friends, family, and coworkers who have been my taste testers for years! Your encouragement and support mean the world to me and my new bakery.  I hope to continue to share my passion and pastries with you all!