I’m Em, a self-taught baker who specializes in French macarons. I, like many others, needed a new hobby when the COVID-19 Pandemic came crashing down and changed the entire world forever. At that time, I was active-duty Air Force—stationed at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. After having tried some of Paris’ best macarons (and being banned from international travel in 2020 due to the lockdown), I had
a strong craving, desire, and curiosity to try and make them myself. I had always wondered why macarons were so expensive, and I soon found out the reasons: they are extremely difficult and time-consuming to make! But as someone who always enjoys tackling a challenge, I was determined to get them right. I began trying many different recipes, equipment, and techniques in my little German kitchen--tweaking the smallest factors one at a time and troubleshooting with different “variables” in my method. At times it was a frustrating scientific process, but my techniques gradually became more consistent. I also had the wonderful opportunity to take a couple of classes offered by French and German pastry chefs. Along the way, I was inspired to explore creative directions for flavors and fillings and came up with many of my own recipes. I am proud to say that after four years, my journey of tireless experimentation and perseverance has yielded a consistent French macaron that is truly delicious--both in texture and flavor. As a social worker, participating in good causes is very important to me. A few times each year I offer fundraising-through-baking opportunities for humanitarian aid in which my customers can participate simply by purchasing and enjoying macarons. I have dreams of one day expanding my business to be a nonprofit. I’m not sure what this will look like yet, but I am thrilled that you are along for the ride! So, what puts the “Em” in my macarons? A few different things: original European AND American-inspired flavors, attention to detail, artisanal designs and shapes, creative color palettes, bold seasonal themes…but most importantly—they are a homemade labor of love. Thank you for being my customer, and I am honored to bake for you and for good causes.
-Em
