From Scratch: Samantha Ward

From Scratch: Samantha Ward
An interview by The Clown

The appeal of baked items must somehow be part of our DNA. Realtors encourage sellers to bake items prior to showings, schools and clubs most frequently use bake sales of raffles for baked good for fundraisers, and some religions pray for daily bread. Charlotte is fortunate to have a large variety of local culinary talent. Within that talent pool, some individuals become prominent through product innovation, quality, exclusivity, and community engagement. Samantha Ward is one of these extraordinary talents producing baked goods that will leave you with cravings for more. Samantha is currently producing baked goods for L’Ostrica. The Clown has been a fan of this baker for quite some time and had an opportunity to catch up with Samantha recently.

Clown: Where did this journey begin for you?
Samantha Ward: At a young age. I’ve always enjoyed creating and all forms of art. If not pastry, I would’ve taken up some form of art (painting, sculpting, etc). Roping the art into the pastries and cakes is where I was sold. The rest is history!

C: Have you been baking since you were very young?
SW: I started in my teen years. Baking full time in the industry since I was 17.

C: Tell us about some of the most impactful things you have learned through schooling, mentoring, and experience.
SW: Honestly, do things how you see fit. Find the people that you want to learn from. Find the template that works for you. There is no right or wrong way. Make your journey unique. Everyone has an opinion, so form your own and don’t let anyone deter you from where you want to be.

C: What is your vision for people experiencing your products?
SW: I just want them to experience joy. That’s what food is all about; sharing a joyful moment with others, celebrating a joyous moment with you and the treat.

C: What are some factors that inspire your creativity?
SW: I love seasonal produce and global ingredients. Taking the time to research pairings and what flavor profiles go well with others. Also, other cultures are always a win for me. I love learning how different parts of the world create their dishes, then integrating certain aspects of those flavors and techniques into my dishes.

C: What is your favorite item to make?
SW: As simple as it is, bread and scones. I’ve made a million cakes and plated desserts. As fun as that is, bread and scones will always win!

C: What music is usually playing in your kitchen?
SW: Music is such a huge part of my life. I could he jamming to ANYTHING! You’ll hear everything from Led Zeppelin, Tool, Ambrosia, George Strait, Celine Dion, As I Lay Dying, Spiritbox, Jason Aldean, etc.

C: You do quite a bit to give back every year. What causes are near and dear to your heart?
SW: Food is community. And without our community, the food industry wouldn’t thrive. I think it’s incredibly important to support and give back to those who support you. I always will be part of Chefs Against Cancer, Giving Kitchen, and Cookies for Kids.

C: What goals/dreams are ahead for you as a baker?
SW: I honestly don’t know where I’ll go from here. It has been a wild ride thus far. If an opportunity comes my way, we shall see. But for now, Charlotte remains my home.

C: What message would you like to share with aspiring bakers?
SW: Explore the world. Work everywhere. See where you fit in the industry. There’s so many amazing cities and cultures to be experienced.

C: What goals are ahead for you as a person?
SW: To find balance. Continued happiness. I’ll always strive to keep pushing as a chef, but right now the wave is high, so I’ll keep on it till I’m not.

C: In ten words, describe the rest of your life.
SW: Free. Creative. Unconventional. Busy. Adventurous. Flavorful. Colorful. Caffeine. Magical. Shenanigans.

L’Ostrica
4701 Park Rd, Unit D, Charlotte, NC 28209
market 11am-2pm Wed.-Sat. / dinner and bar service from 5pm Wed.-Sat. (reservations recommended)
Sunday Supper is a single seating at 5:30pm and reservations are required.
www.LOSTRICAclt.com

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