This month’s Meet a Mom is the very talented baker, Alina Dancho, owner of Alina’s Cakes & Cookies! If you’ve ever thrown a gathering and needed a dessert, or needed a smash cake for you child’s first birthday party, or needed some delicious pastries, Alina’s is definitely top of our list for bakeries to visit in Fairfield! Her custom cakes are gorgeous and the ingredients are always super fresh! Read more below about Alina & her famous cakes!
Where are you originally from and how long have you been in the area?
I am originally from Romania. I lived in Florida for 6 years and came to CT in 2006.
Children / Ages(s)
I have 2 boys who are 15yrs old and 7 yrs old.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
My first passion is gardening and my dream is to have a farm one day.
Favorite local things to do in Fairfield?
Going to the parks and going to the beach.
What is your favorite thing about raising a family in Fairfield?
Fairfield County is close to New York, so it feels more like home than Florida.
What’s your favorite family friendly restaurant? Date night?
Avelino’s, Brick Walk Tavern, Brick & Wood, Geronimo’s….too many to name!
What is your go-to activity for your family? For yourself?
Gardening, being outdoors, parks, the boys love to ride biking, and I love to travel.
Funniest part that you’ve learned about parenthood?
When you think you’ve got it down after your first child, your second is nothing like your first child!
One thing you wish someone would have told you about motherhood?
It’s all common sense. Don’t be afraid!
Best mom hack that makes your life easier?
Outsmart your kids, be one step ahead!
Tell us about your business, Alina’s Cakes & Cookies. When and how did you get started with this business?
It started 7 years ago. I worked in restaurants all of my life, but decided to go back to one of my first loves and professions.
What do you love about baking and creating delicious treats for clients?
I love that I can be a part of people’s important moments through our designs. It’s never the same!
If you hadn’t started this business, what do you think you would be doing today?
I would have been a pastry chef still in a restaurant or started a farm.
Best advice for moms who experience the inevitable MOM GUILT handling a career and a family?
Don’t feel guilty! I know it’s easy to say, but harder to not feel it. I’m still wishing I would have opened my business when my kids were older. It’s the mother instinct that you always want to watch over your babies, but what is more important is all the time you spend with them when you are together after school and work is to count more then the time you are not there. They will always remember the good times.
Who has influenced you to be the mother that you are today?
My mom. I am an only child and my mom was like my sister and she still is. She is with me every day at home & work.
What advice would you share with a new mom or other moms?
Be confident! Love your kids no matter how tired you are. Never take it out on your kids. They will remember your hugs and kisses, not your yelling.
Alina’s Cakes & Cookies
2480 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield
To Order Custom Cakes and Pastries
Please Call or Email at [email protected]