About The Host:
HI! I am Annie! I have been a lover of desserts and baking for as long as I can remember. I wrote on my preschool Mother's day note that I wanted to be a Baker when I grew up. I did not pursue my passion until I was 29. I left my job as a Social Worker for Cuyahoga County Department of Children & Family services in 2006 and started over.I graduated with an Associates Degree in Baking & Pastry Arts from Johnson & Wales University in 2007 and I also have a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Kent State University.After a decade of working as a Pastry Chef at places all over the United States, I burned out. I needed a change and something fresh. I left my full time Pastry Chef job at the Cleveland Museum of Art in May of 2016 and again, started over.I have spent the last 5 years rediscovering my passion for all things Pastry and started my own business, Annie's Signature Sweets in August of 2017 and began teaching baking on February 5th, 2018.Teaching has brought a new light and new passion for baking along with a way to connect with students all over the world. Food brings people together and dessert is one of the things that always brightens someones day.I have taught over 550 baking classes and I absolutely LOVE teaching. I love connecting with all of you and I want to help you find comfort in creating amazing sweets whether it is is real life or at home, you can absolutely do this with no baking expereince!I will help walk you through each step and help you feel less intimiated and more confident in the kitchen. Let me help you find your YUM!My pretzel salted caramel cheesecake won the 5th most sinful sweet in Cleveland.com's contest in Fall 2018, my lemon lavender shortbread was featured in Cleveland Magazine in July 2018. I was named the 5th best pastry chef in Cleveland in March 2019 by Cleveland Scene Magazine. I have been on Channel 3 News, New Day Cleveland and have had several blogs written about me.I was featured in Country Living Magazine in April 2020 showcasing my virtual baking classes. I have taught students all over the world including the Phillipines, and Canada. I have taught virtual classes to Colleges, and Schools and Libraries and hosted virtual birthday parties and events for businesses, families, friends who live apart or have to stay distant due to the Coronavirus.Baking can be therapuetic, fun and can be something you find that you really love. Take a chance and take a class with me and see how easy, fun and delicious baking can be! I cannot wait to meet you!