Hello, readers!

It is that time, once again, to shine some light on yet another star member of our team! This month we have the amazing, Rose! Let me begin by saying that Rose can do it ALL! Even though she is typically working her magic “behind the scenes” – today we are bringing this talented individual to the SPOTLIGHT! Let’s get to know her a little better..

What is your position at BCZ? What is it that you do at the bakery?

My main responsibility is baking all of our cakes and making tons and tons of buttercream. Since we use Italian meringue-style buttercream, it can be very time consuming, and each batch takes 6 lbs. of butter! That taste, though- it is so worth it.

When did you start working at BCZ?

I’m an old-timer now – I started when we first opened the store in Aspinwall.

What was is your favorite “sweet treat” bakery item here?

Ooooh, that’s tough. I’m basically one gigantic sweet tooth, so I really love trying some of everything. Except cheesecake; I love baking it, but I can’t stand cream cheese.

All time favorite cake – Design wise, of course?

Personally, I love the cake that I made for my grandparents’ 60th wedding anniversary. As far as some of the ones that have come out of our bakery goes, I always love the very vibrant colored, but classically designed ones. They’re all so unique that I always find some appreciable aspect of each cake we make, though.

Like I mentioned before, Rose can really do it ALL – Check out this amazing cake that she made!

What is your favorite cupcake flavor?

Again, all of them, just no cream cheese icing for this girl! Mojito and margarita cupcakes are pretty high up on the list of favorites. The pink lemonade cupcake we did was interesting- it was very oddly refreshing, which I don’t think most people would associate with cupcakes.

Those all sound like PERFECT summer flavors to me 🙂

What is your favorite thing about working at Bella Christies?

I come from a big family, so I was sold on the place immediately knowing that two sisters own it. Then, of course, their daughters are always running in and out, and their mother comes to help out often. It really is the absolute “family-owned” bakery.

What is your favorite item to bake?

Cheesecake and cupcakes have always been my favorites. Something about how simple a basic recipe can be so utterly transformed with the endless possibilities of additional flavors, fillings, and garnishes satisfies my creative streak.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you choose?

Spain! Since I began high school, I realized that the three things in life I really need are Spanish, baking and math.

Who is your favorite music artist?

Either Butch Walker or Mary Chapin-Carpenter. Butch holds a special place in my heart, since every time I see him perform, I bring him a gift of cupcakes. Really : )

What is your favorite song, currently?

I haven’t listened to the radio lately, so I’m not really up on any current music. I am a big fan of pretty much all of Lady GaGa’s songs, though.

Do you have any pets? if so, what kind and how many?

I have two cats and one bunny. One of the cats is twenty pounds, and the bunny pushes him around.

GWEN! She’s too cute!

Who is your role model/hero?

Probably my dad. He’s an old curmudgeon (he’s 59 with 5 kids, so of course he is), but he works hard and is just genuinely a very good guy.

What is your all time favorite movie?

Boy, I don’t know. Either Disney’s Fantasia, The Sound of Music, or Mallrats…?

Favorite quote?

“Ain’t nobody got time for that.” Just kidding. I’m not sure; I do try to live the credo “we do one thing, we do it well, we move on.” It helps a lot when things get crazy at the bakery!

Favorite Pittsburgh restaurants?

Oooooh, All India in North Oakland. Followed, of course, by a trip to Antney’s Ice Cream in Crafton.

Here at Bella Christie’s, we love to recognize the hard work of our employees – especially during this time of WEDDING SEASON! When you’re enjoying a bite of cake made by our team, be sure to send a special thanks to Rose – the cake baking expert – who made the great taste happen! Happy Friday – AND – Happy National Donut Day to you all! Have a sweet day!

xoxo,

BCZ Blogger