Today we’d like to introduce you to Seunghee Park
Hi Seunghee, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began back in 2012 when I graduated from culinary school in Korea, specializing in baking. For twelve years, I poured my heart into honing my skills as a baker, constantly learning and perfecting my craft. In 2018, I decided to take a leap of faith and move to California, where I started from scratch. Initially baking out of my home kitchen, I eventually found my way to a local bakery.
Three years later, my brother-in-law in Dallas suggested exploring opportunities in the city, known for its rapid development and culinary diversity. Intrigued by the idea, my husband and I decided to bring our passion for baking to Texas. Eager to connect with the local culture, I spent a year working in a restaurant kitchen, absorbing the tastes and preferences of Dallas residents.
Excited to launch our own venture, I discovered the concept of a ‘Cloud Kitchen,’ which seemed perfect for starting small and focusing on delivery. After months of preparation and refining our menu, blending French pastry techniques with a touch of Korean inspiration, we proudly launched ‘Everything Madeleine.’
Today, ‘Everything Madeleine’ is a cozy dessert bar in Carrollton, slowly gaining recognition. Set to open this summer, we’re thrilled to share our love for madeleines with the community, aiming to bring joy and a unique culinary experience to our customers.”
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all, but each challenge has taught me valuable lessons. Moving from Korea to California meant navigating a completely new culinary landscape. Starting from scratch was humbling—I had to learn local preferences and establish myself in a competitive market.
Transitioning to Dallas presented its own set of hurdles. Finding the right location for our Cloud Kitchen and mastering online delivery logistics were major challenges. We had to figure out the intricacies of FDA certifications and learn the ropes of purchasing kitchen supplies efficiently.
Financially, managing the startup costs and securing business credit were tough. There were moments of uncertainty, but each obstacle pushed us to innovate and grow. Leaving my previous job was a big leap, and there were times I doubted my decision, especially with the financial strain.
Despite the mistakes and setbacks along the way, I’ve learned to overcome challenges with determination and resilience. Today, as we prepare to open ‘everything madeleine’ in Carrollton, I’m grateful for the journey and excited to bring our unique desserts to the community.
We’ve been impressed with Everything Madeleine, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At ‘Everything Madeleine,’ our mission is simple yet heartfelt: to offer a unique twist on the classic madeleine, a treat that holds a special meaning to me for its ability to bring joy during the afternoon slump. We take pride in specializing exclusively in madeleines and a few pastries, ensuring each bite is a delightful blend of French elegance and Korean-inspired flavors.
Our focus is on crafting madeleines that are not overly sweet, catering to those who appreciate a more nuanced dessert experience. We infuse our creations with high-quality ingredients sourced from both France and Korea, combining my passion for chocolate with a commitment to delivering flavors that resonate with our customers.
What sets us apart is our dedication to authenticity and care in every aspect of our business. Each madeleine is a product of our sincere craftsmanship, reflecting our belief that even the smallest treat can bring immense pleasure and satisfaction.
As we prepare to open our doors in Carrollton, we’re most proud of the opportunity to introduce our community to these unique desserts. We invite our customers to indulge in a moment of relaxation with our madeleines and perfectly paired teas, creating a serene afternoon tea experience that’s both comforting and memorable.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
To all self-employed dreamers out there and aspiring entrepreneurs reading this, I understand the challenges you face. Starting a business takes courage and persistence. Embrace the journey, learn from setbacks, and celebrate every step forward. It take a strong mind to keep pushing forward with humility and determination. Success comes from taking that first brave step. Don’t be afraid to start! You have to take the risk sometimes, even if it’s hard. You’ve got this, so take a deep breathe and just do it.
Pricing:
- Madeleine $3-$5
- French tea $3-$4
- Almond/Butter Croissant $6
- Crookie $6(croissant & cookie)
- Scones/Canelé = $5
Contact Info:
- Website: https://everythingmadeleine.myshopify.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everythingmadeleine
Image Credits
SARAH CHU PHOTOGRAPHY
<sarahchuphotography@gmail.com>
