When I began culinary school in 1991 my professor asked the class what we wanted to do after graduation.  90% of us said we wanted to own a restaurant, myself included.  6 years and 3 degrees later - culinary, food service management, and an MBA - I left Johnson and Wales working for a food service management company as a chef manager, and then as a general manager.  However, once I had my second child, I left food service behind and transitioned into finance which enabled me to work from home.  Thankfully, I was able to work in this field for 11 years which allowed me the flexibility to be home with my kids.  During this time, my love for baking evolved into making desserts and cakes for school functions, birthday parties, weddings and baby showers.  My desire to own my own place was still the dream, only the restaurant had now turned into a bakery.

Growing up, my mother never bought desserts, everything was made from scratch at home.  These are the shimmering and defining memories that built the concept of this bakery.  Family recipes from my mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, mother-in-law, father-in-law and grandmother-in-law are the recipes baked here to share with you.  Small batch cooking with fresh quality ingredients are used and everything is made fresh daily. 

So why “Under the Willow”?  As a child I always loved looking at willow trees; something about the waterfall of lush green resonated with me.  When my kids were little our daily walks took us on a path that led us under a willow tree which helped reinforce my love for them even more.  Each time we passed under it I would tell my kids; “1, 2, 3 look up”. This tradition became somewhat magical and the highlight of my walks with them.  Thus, the logo, 2 boys - my boys - under a willow tree.

I hope you enjoy these family recipes as much as my family does, and if you ever find yourself under a willow tree be sure to look up!