We recently connected with Jessica Barris and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jessica, thanks for joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
A few years ago, my dad’s sudden passing from pancreatic cancer turned my world upside down. He had been working alongside my mom for over 30 years, running Culinary Combo. Inspired by his memory and with amazing support from our family, my mom and I made the courageous decision to open a brick and mortar location for Culinary Combo Bakery.
Despite facing delays and unforeseen challenges, we persevered. Finding the perfect location, navigating legal requirements, and transforming the space into a warm and inviting bakery became our mission. Finally, we opened our doors to the public during the Covid pandemic, amidst a backdrop of uncertainties.
The response from the community was heartwarming. People embraced the chance to experience our delectable treats in a physical setting, connecting with the comforting atmosphere we had envisioned. Opening the brick and mortar bakery during the pandemic tested our resilience and adaptability, but it also brought tremendous rewards.
The decision to expand our family business was a risk we were willing to take. It allowed us to continue my dad’s legacy, create a gathering place for our community, and share our passion for baking with a wider audience. The journey taught us the importance of perseverance, seizing opportunities, and embracing change, even in the face of adversity.
Through our bakery, we have not only provided a taste of comfort and joy but also deepened our connection with customers and enriched the lives of those who walk through our doors. We are grateful for the opportunity to honor my dad’s memory and to share our love for baking with the world.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Jessica Barris, and I am the co-owner of Culinary Combo Bakery. Baking has been a part of my life since I was a child, watching my parents create delicious treats in our home kitchen. However, it was the passing of my dad from pancreatic cancer that sparked a deep desire within me to honor his memory and continue the legacy of our family business.
At Culinary Combo Bakery, we specialize in crafting a wide range of delectable baked goods. From mouthwatering pastries to delightful cakes and pies, our goal is to create products that not only satisfy the taste buds but also evoke a sense of comfort and joy. We take pride in using the finest ingredients, infusing our creations with passion and creativity, and delivering an exceptional experience to our customers.
One of the main problems we aim to solve for our clients is the search for high-quality, homemade baked goods that bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth. In a world dominated by mass-produced items, we provide a genuine, handcrafted approach that sets us apart. Each item is made with love and attention to detail, ensuring that every bite carries the flavors and essence of our family traditions.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to personal connections. We believe that food has the power to bring people together and create lasting memories. We strive to foster a welcoming atmosphere in our brick and mortar bakery, where customers can not only indulge in our delicious treats but also feel like part of our extended family. Our dedication to exceptional customer service and building genuine relationships is what makes our brand truly special.
I am most proud of the journey we have embarked upon and the resilience we have shown in the face of challenges. Starting a physical bakery during the Covid pandemic was a risk, but it allowed us to adapt and grow as a business. We are proud to have created a space that brings joy to our customers and contributes to the local community.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, we want them to know that Culinary Combo Bakery is more than just a bakery. It’s a place where passion and creativity converge to create extraordinary culinary experiences. We invite them to indulge in our homemade delights, savor the flavors that have been passed down through generations, and join us in celebrating the joy of food and the power of human connection.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share our story and passion with your readers.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
At Culinary Combo Bakery, our creative journey is driven by a clear mission and goal. Our mission is to create memorable culinary experiences that go beyond simply satisfying taste buds. We strive to evoke feelings of comfort, joy, and nostalgia through our homemade treats.
Our goal is to provide a haven where people can indulge in the simple pleasures of freshly baked goods while building meaningful connections. We believe that food has the power to bring people together, and we aim to foster a sense of community within our bakery walls.
We are passionate about preserving our family traditions and sharing them with others. Through our culinary creations, we hope to inspire a sense of nostalgia and warmth, transporting our customers back to fond memories and cherished moments.
Additionally, we are dedicated to using the finest ingredients and maintaining the highest standards of quality in our baking. We continuously push ourselves to innovate and develop new flavors and unique combinations that surprise and delight our customers.
Ultimately, our goal is to leave a lasting impact on the lives of our customers. We want them to walk into our bakery and experience not only exceptional flavors but also a sense of belonging and happiness. Our creative journey is fueled by the desire to create those moments of joy and connection, one delicious treat at a time.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being a baker is the ability to bring culinary creations to life and evoke joy through my baking. Crafting delicious treats from scratch and witnessing the delight they bring to others is incredibly fulfilling. The creative process of experimenting with flavors and textures is a joyful exploration of self-expression and culinary artistry. When my baked goods resonate with someone and create a positive experience, it is a deeply gratifying moment. Being a baker allows me to contribute to the joy and comfort of others, making the journey truly rewarding and meaningful. 
Contact Info:
- Website: Culinarycombobakery.com
- Instagram: Culinary Combo Bakery
- Facebook: Culinary Combo Bakery
- Yelp: Culinary Combo Bakery
Image Credits
Jessica Barris