What were your favorite desserts growing up?
Tri-color cookies, Entenmann's chocolate chip cookies and chocolate cream pie from Denny's!

When did you decide you wanted open a coffeeshop/bakery?
I had wanted to open a coffeeshop for quite some time. The bakery part came into the picture when Matt and I started brainstorming.

Where and when did your cooking career begin?
I consider myself more of a restaurateur than a cook/chef. I run a business that is part bakery/part café. I do consider myself a foodie however, who is pretty adept in the kitchen. I have my mom to thank for that. I spent countless hours growing up watching and helping my mom cook.

If you didn't become a coffeeshop owner/baker, what would you be?
I'd probably still be a creative director or doing something high-paying and creative!

Who/what has shaped your baking the most over the years?
Always my mom. But, like everyone else, Julia Child and more recently, Ina Garten

What is your favorite secret ingredient?
Not so secret: Cinnamon.

What is your least favorite food?
Seafood. Any and all kinds. I've tried on occasion to break this, but it just doesn't take.

Which foreign country inspires your style most? France. I'm in the midst of the requisite love affair with Paris.

What was the most spectacular meal or dessert you have ever had?
There are so many—it's impossible to choose just one! Any meal at Balthazar in NYC is always a pleasure, start to finish.

What is your best cooking tip for a home enthusiast? Just make sure you always read the recipe through, clean as you go and have all the ingredients prepared (mise en place) before you start!

What do you eat when you are home?
Simple. Usually chicken, rice, vegetables, salad mixed in with nights of pasta dishes.

Do you do the design for your baked goods?
I do! I also work very closely with our decorators. They are my hands!

Do you do the graphic design for the Baked website?
I did until recently. We worked with an amazing design house for our current site and store. All the other design that you see comes from me!