She rose slowly but surely
Mari fell in love with baking and the kitchen as a little girl, peeking under the lid of Sunday lunch. These were mostly prepared by her grandfather, who held a deep respect for the ingredients. He dreamed of having his own bakery his whole life, but never lived to see it.
Mari’s journey to baking was long and took quite a detour—primarily through the automotive world, where she worked for many years. It wasn’t until her forties that she realized what brought her true joy and where she felt most at home: in the kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of baked goods, just like when she baked and cooked with her grandfather as a child. So she told herself it is never too late to start fulfilling one's dreams, she studied professional baking and, after several years of gaining experience, began passing on her knowledge at sourdough baking courses.
You might have already met Mari at courses in Ola Kala or Laboratorio alongside other culinary pros like Martin Kortus. Additionally, you may have heard Mari talking about baking on Czech Radio, where she has been invited as a guest several times.
Now Mari is on the path her grandfather first set out on. Most importantly, however, baking for her isn’t just about the bread. It is a way to slow down, quiet the mind, and spread joy – to herself and to others alike.
Where you might have seen Mari
Alenka, Mari’s slightly whirlwind daughter
Her baking is design, and her flour consists of ideas everywhere she looks. For many years, she worked on visuals for beautiful brands such as Volvo or Four Seasons, but she most enjoyed designing for those who change the world for the better—non-profits like People in Need.
Even though she "bakes" a bit differently, it is always with a smile on her face. She is responsible for ensuring that Mari's joy of baking reaches other enthusiastic bakers in a space that is beautiful, functional, and visible. She takes care of the copy, the website, and the visual direction of the brand, allowing Mari to do what she does best—bake, teach, and inspire others.
And then there are Alfie and Fionka
Two French Bulldogs who might not mix with the dough, but are otherwise involved in everything.
Alfie and Fionka are our moral support. Always ready to lend a paw if something gets overbaked and to bring a smile back to your face even when the sourdough is acting "sour."
While we are proofing the dough, they are proofing the good mood. Whether they are lying under the table, begging for crumbs, or accompanying us to the courses, they are always baking with us. In their own way.
