About Me...

When you ask a child what they want to be when they grow up, they usually answer, “a ballerina”, or “a princess”. Not me. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a chef, in a professional kitchen, creating edible art for others. I have always leaned more toward the sweet side, although I do love to cook.

After high school I attended Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, SC for my Pastry Arts degree. I never imagined that school could be so amazingly fun! It challenged me in the best way possible. I learned under chefs from all over the world. After my two years in Charleston, and meeting my future husband on day one of college (literally!), I decided to move to Providence, RI for my Food Service Entrepreneurship BA degree at Johnson & Wales’ home campus. What a culture shock! Providence was cold, fast paced, and very different from easy-going Charleston, but I loved it. My BA degree was essentially 2 years of learning how to open a food business. I knew I would need that knowledge someday 😉

Upon graduation, I bounced from being a banquet manager, barista, catering director, to pastry chef. I worked for others, worked for myself by selling baked goods at local farmers markets, and learned a lot. But I still hadn’t found the right place for me at that time.

Then one day, I got a phone call from a beloved mentor of mine. There was a pastry teaching job available, it was mine if I wanted it. Teaching had never once crossed my mind. But, never one to turn down a potential opportunity, I accepted. After teaching that first class, I was hooked. It was electric, and I felt energized. I bonded immediately with my students, and had more fun than I had ever had professionally. I taught Pastry Arts full time for almost 12 years. I formed some of the best relationships during those years. Seeing a group of students master a new technique for the first time, or walk across the stage at graduation is a profound experience. But in those 12 years of watching others mature and spread their wings, I was preparing for the same thing. I was ready to be my own boss, and challenge my creativity again.

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So, with 2 kiddos and the most wonderful husband a girl could ask for behind me, I bring you Lana’s Cakes. I create custom, artisan cakes for all special occasions. I put my heart into every cake, to make sure that your event is as special as possible. Whether it’s a wedding, a birthday, or a simple dinner with family or friends, I will provide the perfect sweet ending. Cheers!