Today we’d like to introduce you to Lenise Leknes
Hi Lenise , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The first dessert I made as a kid was arroz con leche (a Latin rice pudding), and I’ve been a sweet treat fan ever since. My grandmother and auntie introduced me to their favorite Caribbean-rich creations. Experimentation in the kitchen inspired me to earn a pastry arts degree from Johnson and Wales University, which is where I learned how to cultivate my love for home and heritage dishes in addition to exploring a range of savory and sweet delights from other cultures. Today, I take these lessons and apply them at my brand-new pastry parlor, Treats With Lenise, which opened in Forsyth, Georgia, on Valentine’s Day 2025. Located in Middle Georgia, I’m able to craft culinary pastries while collaborating with outdoor brands, Georgia farmers, local artisans, and agricultural influencers.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, the road to developing my culinary agribusiness has included potholes, road closures, and detours, but that’s life. What I know is true is staying focused on Jesus throughout the journey, shining His light so that the work I do impacts my customers for the better. I’m also a strong advocate of collaboration and cultivating local partnerships that uplift fellow creatives. That means taking the time to have courageous conversations with family, friends, and strangers to learn new skills, figure out collective strengths/weaknesses, and create boundaries that elevate my work.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a professional pastry chef, public speaker, digital creator, and culinary educator. My portfolio ranges from crafting Latin- and French-inspired confections to sharing this knowledge with my local community so they can experience new sweet delights in their Deep South palettes. I’m most proud of opening this first-ever pastry parlor in Monroe County while continuing to community build throughout the state of Georgia. My compassion is what sets me apart. It’s what has made culinary collaborations seamless and guests willing to enter our parlor’s living room as if they’re family.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Absolutely! My favorite book is the Bible. For professional development in my ever-evolving craft, I find a lot of pastry inspiration on Instagram from culinary classmates and industry veterans.
Pricing:
- Custom Cakes: starting at $125
- Bakery Items: range from $3 to $7
- Venue Rentals: starting at $350
- Private Chef Services: starting at $125/hr
- Public Speaking: starting at $500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://treatswithlenise.com
- Instagram: @treatswithlenise
- Facebook: @treatswithlenise
- Youtube: @treatswithlenise
Image Credits
Photos by Ashah Photography
