Tickets
Members: Free with RSVP
Non-Members: $10
How much do you love a croissant from Carissa’s Bakery? How much do you know about Carissa Waechter herself, her co-founder Lori Chemla, and the story of their road to success? We welcome you to a discussion between two local legends who know the recipe for success and sustainability, and great food! According to the co-founders of the beloved Carissa’s bakery, success is measured by the “number of familiar faces that return to our stores each year.” Join us for our September Knowledge Friday, as we learn how something as simple as baking bread progressed into the “fortuitous accident” that has become the esteemed retail bakery of the East End.
Carissa’s Bakery was grown from deep East End roots. The foundation of their bread program was a sourdough starter first fermented in Amagansett; their famous Salted Soured Pickled Rye was born from ingredients sourced from a local farm stand neighbor and a Southampton rye starter. They continue to source locally, supporting local small growers and producers. This choice is part of their practice to live responsibly, prioritizing organic and sustainable farming and fair-trade practices, while minimizing waste and use of plastics.
Knowledge Fridays, held the first Friday of each month, highlight outstanding East End locals with various backgrounds and careers. The program allows the audience to meet and learn about dynamic, inspiring, and fascinating East Enders. It is a monthly program open to the public and free to our members.
ABOUT LORI CHEMLA
Lori Chemla is the managing partner of Carissa’s Bakery, founded in 2017. Prior to her partnership with Carissa Waechter, Lori was active in ALTOUR, the travel company founded by her husband, Alexandre. She is a founding member and trustee of the South Bronx Early College Academy, and board member of the Bard Center for Curatorial Studies, the Chinati Foundation, and our local Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF). She has three daughters and four grandchildren.
ABOUT CARISA WAECHTER
Carissa Waechter, an honored graduate from the Art Institute of NYC and pupil of acclaimed pastry champion Michel Willaume, enjoyed a successful NYC culinary career at prominent restaurants, including Daniel. Transitioning to Long Island’s East End, she co-managed the Amagansett Farmer’s Market and founded Carissa’s Breads in 2010, emphasizing local ingredients. With partner Lori Chemla, she has established three CARISSA’S Bakery locations: the original East Hampton location, a restaurant on Pantigo Road, and the latest bakery on Bay Street in Sag Harbor.