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Hidden Gems: Meet Ashley Bouknight-Claybrooks of LilaLue Sweets

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Bouknight-Claybrooks.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve been a historian for as long as I can remember. However, a few years ago I leaned into my love of baking. Since that day, I’ve been finding ways to merge these two worlds in order to preserve my family history.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Working as a historian and baker is rewarding and challenging. Each of these fields requires time and patience. However, I’ve learned that cultivating historic narratives is much like cultivating recipes. They both push me to better understand the world around me as well as dig deep into my creativity.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
LilaLue Sweets is a small-batch, online bakery located in Nashville, TN. We are known for our whiskey cookies and brownies! LilaLue’s was named after my grandmother Lila. She was born in 1917 and ran moonshine in the 1950s and 1960s. She was also a pastry chef for the University of South Carolina. Lila worked hard to provide for her family, despite the odds being stacked against her. At LilaLue Sweets, we add whiskey to all of our recipes as a reminder of Lila’s resilience.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
I will forever be grateful for the love and support of my village. Too many to name, but they know who they are. 🙂

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Kyle Brown Photography – Nashville TN

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