Rising Stars: Meet Sonya Vaverek

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sonya Vaverek.

Sonya, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? 
I have always loved to bake. From the time I could reach the counter my mom would let me help her in the kitchen. She has always made everything from scratch and helped to instill in me my love of baking. I went to college and, as I was graduating, decided I wanted to go to Culinary School for Pastry Arts but instead chose to get married and raise a family. Fast forward 25 years full of baking for friends, family, and others in our community. Along with teaching myself new skills and recipes, I decided to fulfill a lifelong dream and open a Cottage Licensed and Insured Boutique Bakery in 2020. We started the bakery in April of 2020, which was not an ideal time to start a business, but with dedication, hard work, and the support of our community, we made the dream become a reality. In May of 2021, we added a converted horse trailer as a mobile bakery trailer for events and festivals to provide a unique and more personalized experience for our clients. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has not always been smooth; there have definitely been a few bumps and detours along the way. But with determination and hard work I was able to overcome the challenges. I work hard to improve not only my skills as a baker but my marketing and communication skills. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a self-taught baker, I am proud to say I have mastered many areas of the pastry world. I am, of course, constantly learning and improving my skills. I would say my style is relaxed and casual, with a focus on quality ingredients and wonderful taste. 

Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
There are several podcasts that I enjoy while I bake. I regularly listen to “Gatropod by Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twilley” and “Christopher Kimball’s Milkstreet Radio.” As far as books go, I have a collection of cookbooks that I love to read and revisit often. 

Contact Info:

• Website: Ohsweetbakery.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohsweetbakeryga/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OhSweetBakeryGeorgia

Image Credits
Amber Brannen Photography
Ashley Akins Photography
Colleen Posea Photography
Sarah Kay Photography