Dine And Design Series Part III

 

“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.” -Elizabeth Colling

 

Episode Description: 

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. 

This week, Justine and Bridget are joined by Elizabeth Colling, Creator & Owner of Merci Montecito. 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.

 

Meet Elizabeth:

Merci Montecito, 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. 

 

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Connect with Bridget (Dine & Design Co-Host): 

A native of New Zealand, Bridget Cooper moved to NY when she was 18 to pursue a career in interior design. This journey started a life of international jet set for Cooper, as travel became the source of inspiration and resource for herself and so many of her clients. 

 

Her innate ability to seek out the extraordinary is the foundation for curating layered interiors and unforgettable experiences. This has built her a reputation in the design world as the “one in the know” and “to know.”

 

Bridget’s interior work ranges from chic high-rise apartments in Chicago and NY to modern farmhouses in Northern California. In recent years, Bridget Cooper has expanded her creative talents working on many commercial projects and events creating unforgettable experiences on both big and small scales.  Bridget delights in over-thinking every detail and loves pushing the boundaries to keep things fresh and unexpected.

 

Currently, Bridget and her husband Rob have moved from SF to Ojai, Ca (a small town north of Los Angeles) where they are building the Iverson house.

 

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Episode Highlights:

01:10 The Genesis: Merci-To-Go 

05:51 Rediscovering the Passion

10:29 Gathering the Team

14:11 It’s All About Good Ingredients

19:44  Take It Slow and Earn Experiences

21:57 Love It!