We had the good fortune of connecting with Clarissa Effa and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Clarissa, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
Authenticity! I love to create flavors/themes/designs specifically for my macarons that are not only delicious, but interesting and unique to something you can only find from me! I truly believe that as much as my customers enjoy my product, one of the reasons that keeps them coming back is that they are invested in me and my story as an entrepreneur.

What should our readers know about your business?
After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I worked in several different baking positions from hotels, to bakeries, to ice cream maker! I learned a lot from each job I held, but I knew I always wanted to start my own business. For many years I had envisioned owning a brick & mortar bakery, but as time went on, I didn’t want to wait for that option (not to say I would turn that down in the future!!). In 2019, I started Cottage Confectionary — a baking business that I run from my home. I love the freedom and flexibility this business model offers me, with the downside of always being at work when I am home. It’s always important for me to try to create some separation when I can — usually when I push my little half speed rack into its home in the closet, that is my sign that the baking day is done! The best part of my business is being able to create the flavors and designs that I love and mean something special to me. For example, back in June, I announced that I was pregnant with my first baby! To celebrate, my seasonal macaron flavor pack was titled “Pretty in Pink,” and all 6 flavors were beautiful, pink, and girly to represent my little girl on the way! I love bringing people into my life for the joyous moments as well as being able to celebrate with them in their moments through the form of Birthday Cakes, Wedding Macarons, and more!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Quite naturally we would have to go on a bakery tour through LA! One of my favorites (even though I have to say my macarons are tastier, shhhh! don’t tell them!) is always Bottega Louie, simply the sight of their pastry case makes my heart skip a beat! Friends & Family always has an incredible selection as well, with a wide assortment of beautiful laminated pastries. And our trip would have to be rounded out by visiting a farmer’s market! Since I sell my macarons at 2 local farmer’s markets, it’s always fun to be the customer and walk around to see the offerings other markets have!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Becoming a Pastry Chef and following my dream of creating all things sweet started when I was about 13 years old. Growing up, I always loved being in the kitchen with my Mom and Grandma baking up whatever treat sounded good that day! During the holiday season that tradition was turned up a million notches as we often gave Christmas Cookie Boxes as gifts. Without their love and guidance, I may have never discovered my true passion of baking!

Website: https://www.cottageconfectionary.com

Instagram: @cottageconfectionary

Facebook: @cottageconfectionary

Image Credits
True Photography

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