Interview With Ms. Sade Baird – Past Culinary Arts Student & Local Entrepreneur

Give a brief overview of your business. 

Sadé’s Dessert Garden is a Dessert Catering company that caters for events such as weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, any sort of celebration. In addition to that we offer items such as cakes, cupcakes, donuts etc on a regular basis, but only by order. We are currently in the process of cresting a storefront for easy access to your pastries and other desserts. 

This business officially launched in May 2020 during the height of Covid 19 where there were a lot of restrictions and lockdowns but we were able to push through and still be open and are afloat for today.

What was your reasoning for choosing your degree?

In attending Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute, I pursued an Associates Degree in Culinary Arts. I have a passion for the kitchen life, baking to be specific, but I love cooking as well, so doing this degree would have allowed me to expand my culinary knowledge and also give me the experience needed to go out into the business world of Culinary Arts.

How was your experience at THTI?

THTI, like any tertiary educational institution, has its challenges and rewards. Challenges in being able to connect to other students, also the teachers. The courses themselves were a task, in getting your assignments done on time, studying for exams, and don’t get me started on group projects, but all in all, each challenge had a lesson at the end of it and to me that is a reward in itself, being able to overcome these obstacles, learn from them and grow. 

One major reward for myself is having a business connection with the institution. To elaborate, in April 2022, I had the great privilege of being a part of the Magdalena Tournament, providing desserts for both the golfers and the guests. I also did a Golf Themed Display Cake, which was excitingly received. In addition to that, I have created great relationships with some of my lectures that also involve aspects of business as well.

Do you have any advice for persons interested in following in your footsteps? 

For anyone interested in attending THTI, I would encourage them to do so. Why? Just because of the great experiences I’ve had and because of the relationships I was able to form. One thing is to make sure you are mentally and physically prepared for the culinary world. Prepare for the good days and the bad ones, course assignments, student dinners, etc, but most importantly have fun because there will be a lot of great experiences to have, so take time and live in the moment.