029: A Relatable Story of Sweet Success with Elizabeth Colling

<p><strong>Dine And Design Series Part III</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">“If you don't go right to where you're supposed to be, that doesn't mean that you're not going to get there eventually.”</span></em> <span style= "font-weight: 400;">-Elizabeth Colling</span></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Episode Description: </strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Elizabeth Colling owns an artisanal cafe in Santa Barbara, CA, but building this mecca of confections wasn’t her childhood dream. Elizabeth is a perfect example of how one thing leads to another, no experience is ever wasted and how embracing the concept of pivoting is so powerful. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This week, Justine and Bridget are joined by Elizabeth Colling, Creator & Owner of</span> <a href= "https://www.mercimontecito.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">Merci Montecito</span></a><span style= "font-weight: 400;">. Elizabeth, who earned her degree at the Ritz Escoffier in Paris,  shares what it took to start Merci, what characteristics to look for in a business partner and team members, and how to make sure the business stays afloat in the face of changing circumstances. Elizabeth also reveals her secret to getting only the best ingredients for all the delicious desserts they serve.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Meet Elizabeth:</strong></p> <p><a href="https://www.mercimontecito.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">Merci Montecito</span></a><span style= "font-weight: 400;">, created by acclaimed pastry chef Elizabeth Colling, is an artisanal cafe serving delicious organic homemade food. Elizabeth earned her degree at the Ritz Escoffier in Paris before working at Spago Beverly Hills and becoming the pastry chef at Bastide. Elizabeth was a Food Editor at Martha Stewart Living and Martha Stewart Weddings, where she developed and styled desserts for both publications. </span></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://www.mercimontecito.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">Website</span></a></p> <p><a hr