Sunshine & Swan Newsletter

As a subscriber, you'll be the first to receive exclusive content and fascinating stories that will give you an inside look into the vibrant city of Lakeland. From local history and hidden gems to interviews with remarkable community members, my newsletter will take you on a journey of discovery and connection. Subscribe today and let's embark on this journey together!

What’s Cooking In The Catapult Kitchen?
Emily Mort Emily Mort

What’s Cooking In The Catapult Kitchen?

Explore the bustling nexus of innovation and culinary craftsmanship within Lakeland's very own Catapult! Within these walls, a symphony of creativity and entrepreneurship unfolds, shaping the landscape of our city in ways both exciting and delicious. Catapult, a privately funded non-profit organization, stands as a beacon of progress, dedicated to propelling startups forward and enriching Lakeland's vibrant food scene.

In this bustling hub of creativity and entrepreneurship, Catapult isn't merely a workspace; it's a transformative force driving positive change throughout our community. As the curtains rise on this stage of innovation, a cast of visionaries, chefs, and culinary artisans takes center stage, each with a story to tell and a dish to delight.

Amidst the whirlwind of activity, one initiative stands out: the Catapult Kitchen and its groundbreaking Restaurant Residency Program. What began as a humble pop-up window has blossomed into a revolutionary concept, offering a platform for culinary talent to shine. Within these walls, a temporary restaurant springs to life, showcasing the diverse flavors and talents of Lakeland's own.

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A Taste of Tradition: Parksdale Farm Market's Strawberry Symphony
Emily Mort Emily Mort

A Taste of Tradition: Parksdale Farm Market's Strawberry Symphony

If you're wondering why the buzz about Parksdale Farm Market reached my ears, blame it on the relentless recommendations from friends who've either migrated to Lakeland. Their chatter about this market piqued my interest, particularly when they emphasized its exclusivity – open only from January to April, the coveted strawberry season.

The decision to make a 30-minute trip to Plant City wasn't driven by a sudden burst of wanderlust but rather the pragmatic realization that Parksdale was now open for the season. Social media played its part, bombarding me with posts showcasing the market's offerings. This year, I succumbed to the collective enthusiasm and embarked on a trip to unravel the mysteries behind Parksdale Farm Market.

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Savoring Success: Bandidas Bake Shop's Path to Permanence
Emily Mort Emily Mort

Savoring Success: Bandidas Bake Shop's Path to Permanence

Bandidas, where the vibrant energy of New York City meets the rich flavors of our Latin upbringings. Our culinary journey is a tale of two passionate individuals, Gabriella and Gio, who found their common ground in the bustling streets of NYC, merging their talents and love for food to create something truly extraordinary.

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The 12 Days of Lakeland Holiday Treats
Emily Mort Emily Mort

The 12 Days of Lakeland Holiday Treats

Greetings, festive friends and fellow Lakeland enthusiasts! As we approach the most wonderful time of the year, I'm thrilled to unveil a holiday journey like no other. Welcome to our "12 Days of Lakeland Holiday Treats" extravaganza, a merry celebration steeped in Lakeland's charm and the joyous spirit of the season.

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From Passion to Perfection: The Story Behind Andrew Logans Artisan Chocolates & Confections
Emily Mort Emily Mort

From Passion to Perfection: The Story Behind Andrew Logans Artisan Chocolates & Confections

Andrew Logan's Artisan Chocolates and Confections is where a profound passion for food converges with an appreciation for unique flavors and artistic presentation guided by the vision and passion of its owner, Mark Sutton. Mark's culinary venture goes beyond mere business, representing a heartfelt odyssey fueled by a profound love for food and an insatiable appetite for unique tastes. Mark's narrative unfolds with the discovery of chocolate-making, a craft that seamlessly blends art and science. "I have always had a passion for food, but even more so for unique flavors and presentation," Mark shares, encapsulating the essence of his culinary pursuit and the desire to share something special with Lakeland.

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Behind the Apron with The Cookie Lady Searie Monge
Emily Mort Emily Mort

Behind the Apron with The Cookie Lady Searie Monge

Searie began her baking adventure by sharing the love of homemade cookies with her co-workers. Picture this: a tray of warm, gooey cookies being passed around at the end of a long shift. The reaction? Pure excitement. People couldn't get enough, and Searie couldn't help but notice the joy her treats brought to others. It was there, among the hustle and bustle of a restaurant kitchen, that "The Cookie Lady" was born. A nickname given by one of her co-workers, it perfectly captured what she had become known for – the purveyor of delightful, mouthwatering cookies.

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Crafting Cookie Dreams with a Dash of Chaos: The Cookie Catastrophe 
Emily Mort Emily Mort

Crafting Cookie Dreams with a Dash of Chaos: The Cookie Catastrophe 

In the bustling world of baking and sweets, where delicious creations emerge from the confluence of passion, determination, and a sprinkle of chaos, there's a delightful treat for all the taste buds and a story to savor. We're thrilled to introduce you to Stephanie and Krystal, the dynamic duo behind The Cookie Catastrophe – a whimsical haven where gourmet cookies, delectable brownies, custom treats, and endless confectionery wonders come to life.

Stephanie, the visionary baker with a lifelong dream of owning her own bakery, found herself on the precipice of this delightful journey with her equally talented partner, Krystal. It all started amidst the whirlwind of the pandemic when the world seemed uncertain, and life took a quirky turn. Their adventure began with a spark, fueled by the ingenious idea to transform their home into a bustling cottage bakery.

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From Customer to Creator: The Sweet Journey of Milk & Honey Macarons
Emily Mort Emily Mort

From Customer to Creator: The Sweet Journey of Milk & Honey Macarons

Introducing Milk & Honey Macarons, a delightful venture founded by the passionate and talented Carissa Dyer. Carissa's journey into the world of macarons began with her love for these handmade, small-batch delicacies. After her go-to macaron baker in Lakeland closed shop, Carissa took matters into her own hands, determined to create macarons that met her exacting standards. With each batch, her enthusiasm grew, leading her to share the extras with friends and family, who couldn't get enough of her delectable creations.

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Inclusivity & Indulgence: The Journey of Mike & Mike's Desserts
Emily Mort Emily Mort

Inclusivity & Indulgence: The Journey of Mike & Mike's Desserts

Indulge in a world of sweetness and mouthwatering delights as we delve into the captivating story of Mike & Mike's Desserts. Prepare to be enchanted by the passion and dedication of co-founder Mike Mitchell, whose unwavering belief in inclusivity within the dessert industry has sparked a delightful revolution. Drawing inspiration from his own experiences and a deep-rooted desire to cater to diverse dietary needs without compromising on flavor and taste, Mike set out on a mission to create desserts that everyone could enjoy.

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Zaza & Co. From Baking Enthusiast to Cookie Extraordinaire
Emily Mort Emily Mort

Zaza & Co. From Baking Enthusiast to Cookie Extraordinaire

Once upon a time, in the midst of the chaotic year that was 2020, a little bakery called Zaza & Co. emerged, captivating the taste buds and hearts of dessert enthusiasts far and wide. Led by the passionate and adventurous spirit of its owner, Raitza, Zaza & Co. quickly became a beacon of creativity and delectable treats.

From a young age, Raitza had been enchanted by the world of baking. Growing up in a household with two talented bakers as parents, the mesmerizing scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the air became a comforting symphony of childhood memories. However, the demands of a full-time job and studies left little room for Raitza to pursue her passion for baking. The dream of owning her own bakery seemed like a distant fantasy.

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Sunshine & Swans

About The Author

Emily Mort is a Lakeland native and the creator behind LKLDlense, a popular social media account and online community that celebrates all things Lakeland. With a background in photography, graphic design, and social media marketing, Emily has used her skills to showcase the beauty and unique character of her hometown. She is passionate about creating a sense of community and connection through her work and has been instrumental in promoting local businesses, artists, and events. Emily's love for Lakeland shines through in everything she does, and she continues to be a leading voice in the city's vibrant and dynamic creative scene.