Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa North.
Hi Lisa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Lemon Drop Pastry Shop began during COVID. I was attending culinary school when the world shut down. At the same time, I had to close another business that I had owned and operated for 30 years.
With my culinary training unexpectedly put on hold, I decided to take what I had learned in school, combine it my experience as a volunteer baker for 2 wonderful non-profit organizations, Cake4Kids & Icing Smiles, Inc, turn my passion for baking into a business. I started with just one item-the Lemon Drop Cookie, and the response was overwhelming!
Over the years, the bakery has expanded to include a menu of lemon-inspired desserts. Some of our most popular treats include the Glazed Lemon Blondie, Lemon Cake and Lemon Truffles. We offer a variety of other delicious flavors as well. In addition, I am a custom cake decorator and have had the opportunity to create desserts for our local schools and universities, first responders and even a well-known celebrity!
Today, I am able to combine my passion for baking with my love for the community that I have been a part of for over 30 years. Along the way, I have met some incredible people. The support that I have received has meant more to me than I can express. I genuinely love what I do and enjoy baking the residents of Chula Vista and San Diego happy!
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?
Shifting careers and opening a bakery at 52 years old, during a pandemic, was extremely challenging! Although I had worked in restaurants when I was younger, running a bakery was completely different. Suddenly I had to learn everything from food safety and licensing to pricing and and recipe development. There was a lot of trial and error, and it took time to perfect my brand.
The other challenge was finding my place in a community with such an incredible food culture and so many talented bakers and pastry chefs. I had to find a way to offer high-quality desserts made with fresh ingredients while still keeping my prices competitive. More importantly, I had to figure out what would make my bakery stand out.
For me, the answer was lemons! I love lemons. I love the color, the smell, the taste. I bake, cook and clean with them. They make me happy! That became the inspiration behind Lemon Drop Pastry Shop.
What makes is even more special is that Chula Vista, the community I live in, was once the Lemon Capitol of the World. I love that my bakery has a connection to the place I call home.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am baker who specializes in lemon-inspired desserts, which is how I earned the nickname “The Lemon Lady.” My signature lemon cookies, cakes, blondies and truffles have become my most popular treats, I am incredibly proud of the Lemon Drop brand I have built and how recognizable it has become in the community.
I believe presentation is just as important as what you are serving. I want my customers to enjoy the entire experience, not just the desserts themselves. I’ve spent years creating a signature look for my bakery tent, inspired by the charm and elegance of a French patisserie. From the bright colors to the carefully arranged displays, every detail is intentional. I love seeing people’s reactions when they first walk up to my tent!
Beyond the lemon desserts, I am also a custom cake decorator, which gives me another opportunity to be creative. I love working with clients to bring their ideas to life, whether it’s something elegant and understated or a vibrant and colorful creation. Every cake is different, and I enjoy the challenge of turning someone’s vision into something uniquely theirs.
What I am most proud of is that I’ve built a business that reflects who I am. It’s colorful, creative and filled with things I genuinely love.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
My definition of sucess has changed over the years. When I was younger, it was measured more by financial accomplishments. Of course, that’s still important, but it’s not the main focus. Today I measure success by taking a chance on something unfamiliar and turning it int a business that continues to grow. Some of my most rewarding moments have nothing to do with sales. It’s the customer who tells me how much they loved a cake or seeing the familiar faces who seek me out at local events.
I also love that Lemon Drop Pastry Shop has given me the opportunity to give back to the community. Being able to support local organizations through something I truly enjoy doing is incredibly fulfilling.
Pricing:
- Individual Lemon Desserts $4-$12
- 8″ Cakes $55+
- Cupcakes $28+/dozen
- Custom Desserts-Inquire for pricing
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @lemondroppastryshop
- Facebook: @lemondroppastryshop
