When I was just a little girl growing up on the island of Puerto Rico, I spent most days in my grandmother’s kitchen.

I loved watching my grandmother work, her aged hands worked with such precision, her dedication started early in the morning and lasted well into the evening, her pride was small and her commitment was huge.

My grandfather was an extraordinary carpenter and worked to build a custom home for them before I was born. The home was immaculate, layered with the personal touches that only come when the builder pours his heart and soul into every piece.

I can still remember feeling lost in that large house - but feeling completely at ease in that kitchen. It was more than just a kitchen, it was Los Biscochos de Isabel - or Isabel's Cakes in English. My grandmother decades before I started spending days at her kitchen, had started a little business where she baked amazing cakes for local couples on their wedding day.

I like to think that structure my grandfather built was mainly for her kitchen, and that the home attached was just a bonus.

My fondest memories come from twirling my long black hair, spinning on her stool, poking holes in all her cakes, and plucking off each hand-crafted sugar flower to eat. My grandmother was strong and tough, but for her little Yanilba she was patient.

Her patience sparked my curiosity, it made me watch and learn more intently.

I can still remember my grandmother drawing each cake on paper and presenting the idea to her clients during their consultation. The way she showed her servant’s heart and found happiness in her work is something I keep with me every day.

When the little girl in that story grew up, starting an event planning business seemed like a natural avenue - at the time, I specialized in dessert tables - isn’t it funny how things come full circle?

Years later, I’ve successfully planned and managed elegant events for brides all over the Connecticut area for more than a decade. I take great care of my client’s and in making sure they can step back, relax, and enjoy the wedding planning process.

You could say I inherited that servant’s heart from someone pretty special.

Los Biscochos de Isabel

xo loveYan