Today we’d like to introduce you to Chandler Stier.
Chandler, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My story actually started before I even knew it did. I used to love going to toy stores to pick out every color of modeling clay. I had stacks of the stuff. I would spend hours shaping all sorts of things. The one I remember most was a sculpture of a tray of fast food. I sculpted everything; a fountain drink with a straw sprinkles on top of an ice cream cone, individual French fries and a crumpled up napkin. I even made a pretzel complete with salt crystals. Little did I know this sculpting obsession of mine would turn into a dream to start my own business. The clay eventually turned into edible fondant and away I went designing all sorts of cakes. I watched every episode of Cake Boss while it aired on television and taught myself many of their techniques. My first official order was when I was 16 and that’s when it started to set in that maybe I could pursue the culinary world as a career. Since then, my love for food has grown immensely. In 2019, I launched Hat Trick Bakehouse and started supplying a local coffee shop with New York style bagels. My end goal is to have a storefront where the windows are lined with fresh made breads, the shelves are stuffed with Italian pastries and mugs are filled with coffee drinks inspired from around the world.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to where I am at now has not been what I imagined it to be. In some sense, I did not anticipate as much business as I have had so soon after launching Hat Trick Bakehouse. But on the other hand, getting closer to an actual brick and mortar shop has seemed a lot like one step forward and three steps back. I am thankful for all the encouragement I have received from friends and family who can see the bigger picture when I become nearsighted. As the future of HTB comes more into focus, I am able to see what the next steps are on this journey. I am leaning into the idea that moving forward isn’t as set and stone as it seems. Sometimes, just because the journey seems longer than anticipated doesn’t mean you’re going the wrong way. As long as you’re moving, you’re progressing.
Please tell us about Hat Trick Bakehouse.
I am a baker and cake decorator, but my vision for food goes beyond the pastries themselves. At the heart of Hat Trick Bakehouse is a passion for the entire experience of the culinary world. I boldly believe that quality is something worth fighting for. That is why everything made at HTB is ethically sourced. I believe that I have a responsibility to make my bakehouse environmentally sustainable, from the wheat harvested to the cup that holds the coffee. I believe that the effort to uphold these standards sets my product apart. Food is meant to be enjoyed, not just consumed and each ingredient has a story to tell if one is willing to listen to it. That is why I pursue techniques that other bakeries don’t. I am most proud to soon be using freshly milled wheat in my pastries, adding a depth to flavor and quality not offered in commercially processed flour.
Who have you been inspired by?
First, my sister Kalie Stier. I am so thankful for the support that she has been to me throughout my life. Her creativity and the way she sees the world is an inspiration to me. She balances out my practicality by showing me different ways to look at situations. She has shown me how to pursue my passions fiercely. She is an incredible artist who elevates my own view of the world.
Second, my best friend Kara. She is bold, tenacious and incredibly caring. She pursues her dreams without fear and shows me that I can push myself further than I thought I could. She believes in me when I doubt myself. Her steadfast faith in God is a guide for me to strive after.
Contact Info:
- Email: hattrickbakehouse@gmail.com
- Instagram: @hattrickbakehouse
Image Credit:
Cover Photo: LInda Stier; Photo 1-2: Chase Sevey; Photo 3-5: Linda Stier; Photo 6-7: Chandler Stier
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