Grey Goose Notable young professionals and entrepreneurs are influential tastemakers who have made it beyond their years and, though their careers are still evolving, are now able to enjoy the success and life they have created. These selected individuals share how they got to where they are today, how they are able to enjoy what they have earned, where they love to travel, how they entertain and how they celebrate all that life has to offer. If there is someone who understands the “extras” of entertainin,g it is Pamela Battah, Co-Owner and Cake Designer of Gâteaulogie in Montreal, the city’s first cake store. The 28-year-old has become the go-to source for creating beautiful custom cakes – including for the likes of Neil Patrick Harris and The Beach Boys.
As a Co-Owner and Cake Designer of Gâteaulogie, Pamela Battah has forever had a love and passion for baking, and could always be found creating in the kitchen while she was growing up. Following years of deliberation, and graduating with two Bachelor of Arts degrees from Concordia University in Montreal, she realized that baking was truly where her heart was and decided to leave her position in Human Resources at HSBC in the pursuit of more formal training in the world of pastry arts. In January 2011, Buttah’s passion led her to follow her childhood dream and pursue a certification as Cake Designer from the world-renowned Bonnie Gordon College of Confectionary Arts in Toronto, graduating with distinction. After completing the program, she decided it was time to open Montreal’s first cake shop solely dedicated to everything cake-related…and the rest is history.
If there was one location everyone must see, what would it be?
Other than my store? Haha, kidding! I would easily have to say Paris, France. Between the beautiful architecture, the romantic ambience, museums, and history, and of course the incredible food and pastries, it is definitely one of the most beautiful and special places I have ever visited.
What is your general perspective on life? Advice for fellow young professionals?
I am a very happy-go-lucky, positive person and truly believe that you have the power to control your life and your destiny. Young entrepreneurs should definitely not be afraid to take risks and go outside of their comfort zones. It’s not an easy task, however if you are a driven individual, determined and truly believe in what your goals are, you will succeed.
Who do you admire most?
My parents. My father is a very successful entrepreneur and someone I grew up looking up to. I guess entrepreneurship is in my blood. My mother is my partner in crime and co-owner of Gâteaulogie. I couldn’t have done it without her. My parents have been very hands-on throughout my life as well as extremely supportive in every career and educational decision I have made. I would not be where I am today without the incredible influence they have had on my life.
Why were the early stages of your career worth what you are now able to enjoy?
I’d like to think I’m still in the early stages of my career, with many new exciting plans in the works. I can easily say that all my past experiences have led me up to this point. I worked in the retail industry for many years, which has definitely aided in my customer relationships. It has not been an easy road to get to where I am, with lost friendships due to them not understanding what’s involved in having and running your own business. However, the ones that believe in you are the ones that are going to stand by you and support you. Finding your true passion in life is challenging in and of itself, as well as having people that understand where you came from as well as the direction you’re going. I have given up a lot throughout this process, however you truly discover who you are as an individual, as well as what you are capable of doing. I strongly believe that no one can stop you from fulfilling your dreams but yourself. When you pour your heart and soul into something you truly believe in, you can’t help but enjoy the results.
What makes the best host at a dinner party?
Always pretend like everything’s under control, even if it isn’t! The host always has to make sure the guests feel comfortable and make sure they are having a good time, essentially making sure their glasses are always full!
What’s your favourite restaurant?
Tao, in Las Vegas. Great atmosphere, drinks and, above all, the most incredible food! Is a 5-hour flight too far to go for dinner? I don’t think so…what a great gift!
What’s your favourite drink?
Bloody Ceasar, extra spicy….the Canadian way.
One thing always in your fridge?
Hummus and pita bread! Makes the perfect snack! Must be the Lebanese in me.
Do you cook?
Absolutely! I love to cook just as much as I love to bake. Being in the kitchen is very therapeutic and where I feel most comfortable. I love to cook traditional Lebanese dishes that I learned from my mother and grandmother, as well as try new dishes like when I attempted to cook my first Thanksgiving dinner…in July!
How do you stay fit and healthy?
Having a business is very stressful and a lot of hard work, so I like to unwind by doing hot yoga. It’s the perfect way to clear your mind and relax, and you feel so great after.
What is your ideal Sunday?
Lazy Sundays! After a long, busy week at work, I thoroughly enjoy a nice Sunday brunch and spending the day with family and friends, and of course my dogs.