I’m a sucker for people who start their lives going in one direction, and then find it in themselves to successfully go in a different direction.  I also love entrepreneurial stories — particularly those of people who succeed while being entirely self taught.  None of those things is easy.

I give you Leslie Seggar.  Dr. Seggar has a PhD in clinical psychology.  She also has a son.  When her son turned one, Leslie wanted him to have a very special birthday cake.  When she couldn’t find the cake she had in mind, she designed, baked, and created it herself.  How hard can it be?  Hard.  But just like that, she became a baker.

Okay.  There was a great deal of self-study, a few days observing at a few different bakeries, and plenty of baking experimentation on her own, but eventually she opened Tulie Bakery in Salt Lake City.  Her success derives from her passion for baking, and her total commitment to high-quality, well-made pastries and other baked goods.

At Tulie Bakery’s two Salt Lake City shops, Leslie and her team turn out finely-crafted and aesthetically-simple pastries, cakes, and other baked goods.  They work only with the highest-quality and freshest pure ingredients, including butter, butter, butter.

Tulie Bakery’s shops have a clean, simple, slightly industrial (exposed bricks and ducts) feel, but are comfortable and welcoming.  Big tables let you spread out, read, and stay.

Salt Lake City.  Seriously.