Me and My New Friend Hope, at the Bakery, On Her Birthday!

Last Friday was one of those magical days at the bakery that left my heart overflowing.

It started with a call from my dear friend Carlos. He and his girlfriend, Elizabeth, were dealing with a death in the family and wanted to help provide something special for everyone to enjoy after the funeral. Carlos said he knew exactly who to call when they found out that the family loved baklava. I had four flavors available and quickly began packaging their order. When they arrived, I was still wrapping things up, so we laughed and chatted while I finished. Elizabeth’s son Anthony was with them too, and the energy they brought into the bakery was such a gift.

In the middle of all that, I forgot to lock the door—and wouldn’t you know it, in walked another group! A beautiful, bubbly family of six, full of smiles and curiosity. After I said goodbye to Carlos and his crew, I welcomed this next wave of baklava lovers with open arms. They were in town to celebrate one sister’s graduation from dental school and the gal who doing most of the talking said she had heard about Sheer Ambrosia on NPR’s Marketplace and was excited when she googled us and found out we now have a store front.

I still had enough baklava left, so I gave them samples to enjoy while I packaged their boxes. We had the best time chatting. They asked about how I landed in Utah, about my kids, and about the bakery. We laughed, swapped stories, and connected like old friends. Before they left, I asked the graduate’s name and wrote her a little note of congratulations, tied the note to a box of baklava (my personal gift to her), and added a Sheer Ambrosia mug so she could enjoy her favorite drink while she enjoyed her baklava. As they walked out the door, I realized—I never even asked the name of the sweet woman I’d been talking to the whole time or her family! But my heart was so full.

Not a couple of hours later, I got an email alert—someone had left a Google and Yelp review. My heart always races a little when I see those notifications, like that nervous excitement you felt as a kid on report card day. I opened it up—and there it was, a glowing review from Rose—the very same woman I'd just spent that unforgettable 20 minutes talking to. Somehow, in the midst of their family celebration, she made time to share kind words about her experience with me. It truly made my day. You are read it below:

5 STAR REVIEW

I’ve ordered from Rita at Sheer Ambrosia before (to DC) and already knew her baklava was hands-down the best I’ve ever had—but nothing could have prepared me for the joy of meeting her in person!

I was in Salt Lake City celebrating my little sister’s graduation from dental school and when I Googled, I saw that Sheer Ambrosia now had a retail space and I just had to to check it out! I didn’t realize it was order-by-pickup/appointment only, but the universe was clearly smiling on us because Rita was there, and she had just enough leftover baklava for my family and me to buy. It felt like fate.

Not only did she greet us with free samples (while we drooled and waited for our fresh baklava to be packaged), she shared her incredible story with us, asked about ours, and made us feel so seen and special. She gifted my sister a beautifully wrapped box of baklava, a ceramic campfire mug, and a handwritten note—a handwritten note! Who does that?! Rita does!

Sheer Ambrosia doesn’t just make world-class baklava (seriously—crispy, buttery, rich, and layered with love)—it’s a reflection of the beautiful human behind it. Rita, thank you for turning an already joyful day into something unforgettable. You gave us so much more than dessert—you gave us a sweet memory that we’ll treasure forever. 💛

If you haven’t tried or ordered from Sheer Ambrosia yet, do it. Your taste buds (and heart) will thank you!

--Rose Reyling

These moments are everything to me. Yes, I love creating delicious baklava—those flaky, golden, buttery layers filled with sweet, crunchy goodness—but what I love even more is sharing moments with you. Getting to know you. Hearing your stories. Celebrating your milestones.

Also this week, I had a customer friend, Monica call from Maine about an online order she had just placed that I needed to modify. Her daughter, born in Greece, introduced her own daughters—just 3 and 6 years old—to baklava, and now it’s their favorite treat. I loved hearing her family story about how baklava has made a difference in their three generations. We laughed and agreed that we were both glad she needed to call to fix the shipping address because we enjoyed our conversation so much.

Another customer, Krista came by on Thursday to pick up baklava with her 11-year-old daughter Hope. The occasion? It was sweet Hope’s birthday. The birthday girl had saved my business card from last June because her mom promised to buy her baklava for her birthday. She arrived in the cutest birthday sash, excited as could be. I gave her a mini tour of the bakery, treated her to a sample, had wonderful conversation about her talents and hobbies (which, of course, baking is one of them) and sent her off with her baklava gift from mom and a few extra goodies from me. Her joy was contagious.

These are the moments that remind me why I do what I do. With everything going on in the world, I’ve stopped watching the news as much. Instead, I make my own news. Good news. Sweet news. Stories like these, that I get to share with you.

So here I am—Rita Roberts Magalde—reporting LIVE from Sheer Ambrosia Bakery, where love, laughter, and layers of phyllo come together to create something truly special.

Thank you for letting me be part of your lives. And thank you, as always, for being part of mine.

With a full heart,

Rita

Hope...one of Salt Lake's premier baklava connoisseurs, baker by day and cheerleader by night!

Me with Chris demoing for the class

Thank you Chris and Sofe for donating your time to our American Heart Association Fundraiser and for rekindling my tango flame. And thank you Brittany from Sugar Space for donating the venue!

In my last newsletter, I told you about a remarkable group of women I’m working with, led by the amazing Dr. Sidni Shorter, to raise money for the American Heart Association. Since I couldn’t bake my way to fundraising success (the AHA has a no-sweets policy!), I reached out to an old friend with a different kind of talent—and together, we hosted a tango class.

Yes—Argentine Tango.

Some of you may not know this, but tango was once a huge part of my life. My love affair with the dance began back in 1999, when I was pregnant with my son Leo. I was on bed rest after a previous miscarriage, and I spent my days reading, watching movies, and trying to stay hopeful. One afternoon, I stumbled across a foreign film called The Tango Lesson. It was beautifully filmed in London, Paris, and Buenos Aires and told the story of a woman falling in love with tango and the teacher who taught her to dance...Pablo Veron. I was mesmerized. Bedridden, I longed to move, to dance, to feel that kind of freedom in my body.

Fast forward years later to October 2006—a friend invited me to a local tango dance, and everything came flooding back. That movie, that feeling, that longing. I was hooked. I dove in headfirst, dancing every chance I got. When I wasn’t working or mothering, I was at a tango class or a milonga (that’s what tango dance nights are called). By December of that year, I was in Buenos Aires dancing the nights away, completely immersed in the world of tango. I even had the opportunity to meet Mr. Pablo Veron himself (who was in town from Paris) and take a private lesson of my own with him at his family home. Talk about full circle!!!

But as Sheer Ambrosia began to grow, tango slowly faded into the background. The bakery demanded more of my time and energy, and I gave it—willingly. Then the pandemic hit, and like so many things, tango disappeared altogether. Close contact dancing was off the table, and I couldn’t risk getting sick—I had a business to run and people depending on me.

Since then, I’ve told myself there just wasn’t time. No room in the schedule for dancing.

Until this past Tuesday.

As part of our fundraiser, I dusted off my old tango shoes, slipped them on, and took to the floor with my dear friend Chris. And would you believe it? My body remembered. The music started, and just like that, I was gliding across the floor, feeling more alive than I have in a long time.

In that moment, I realized how much I had missed it. How much I had been missing.

Don’t get me wrong—I love my work. I love the bakery. But it hit me that there’s room in my life for more than just work. There has to be. I can love my business without letting it consume me. I can feed others with sweet, flaky baklava and also nourish my own soul with dance.

So here’s to making space for joy, for movement, for music. Here’s to the reminder that our passions can coexist. That it’s not selfish to make time for the things that light us up—it’s necessary.

Sheer Ambrosia is my heart. But tango is my rhythm. And I think it’s time to dance again.

With love and a twirl,

Rita

January 2015 - Me escaping the Salt Lake City winter and the bakery for a weekend of tango in warm, sunny San Diego.

🌸 Easter Just Got Sweeter! 🌸

Enjoy 20% Off Our Signature 12-Piece Traditional Honey Walnut Baklava

Each box is lovingly packed in our limited-edition pink Easter gift box and includes an adorable gift tag, making it the perfect present or showstopper for your holiday dessert table.

💗 Special Easter Details:

✨ 20% off our 12-piece Traditional Honey Walnut Baklava

🎁 Packaged in pink Easter boxes with festive gift tags

📦 Shipping box holds up to 3 baklava boxes for the same flat $14 rate

⏳ Offer valid now through Easter Sunday (April 20, 2025)

🧊 Bonus Tip:

Our baklava freezes beautifully for 6 months to a full year, so stock up while the savings last!

Order 1, 2, or 3 boxes—the shipping price stays the same.

Treat yourself, gift a box to a loved one, or save a box (or two!) for later.

👉 Tap the link to order and use the coupon code EASTER2025 at check out now and let Sheer Ambrosia bring sweet joy to your Easter celebration.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever,

Rita Magalde

Me and My Kiddos (Leo and Sofia) A Couple of Years Ago On Thanksgiving

As many of you know, I spent a good part of January and the entire month of February trying to win the title of Entrepreneur of Impact, a contest where the last person standing would receive a $25,000 check, a mentorship with Daymond John, and a feature in Forbes Magazine.

At first, I thought I was simply applying for a grant. Before I knew it, I had entered a competition where votes determined the winner—one free vote per person per day, or purchased votes at $1 each, with occasional double-vote days for extra impact.

When I read the rules and realized what I had gotten myself into, my gut told me to walk away. Running a business is already a marathon—did I really want to spend three months rallying for votes? I worried about how repeatedly asking people to support me might impact my brand. But the lure was strong. $25,000. Daymond John. Forbes.

I asked three trusted friends for advice, and they all said the same thing: "Go for it!" So, I did. I made it through round after round, week after week. I created videos, posted on social media, and reached out to my family, customers, friends, and colleagues. Even my children got involved.

Then came the quarterfinals on February 27th—the most grueling, stressful day of this journey. For weeks, I had been in first place every morning. But on the day it really mattered, I woke up to find myself in second. I sprang into action. I reached out to those who had promised to help if I dropped below #1. They delivered, purchasing votes and pushing me back to the top.

A few hours later, I checked again—second place. Then third.

More calls. More texts. More appeals. It was a battle. I barely ate. At a Chamber of Commerce meeting that evening, I kept checking my phone. Just one more hour. Just hold on. Then, with 30 minutes to go, two other contestants overtook me.

My son threw in $50, then another $50, then $100. His friends joined in. A dear friend at the Chamber meeting put in $250. Nothing. Still second. Minutes later, it was over.

I lost.

I left the Chamber meeting in tears. No $25,000. No Daymond John mentorship. No Forbes feature for Sheer Ambrosia.

But as I drove home, I remembered something—a 5-star Google review from a new customer named Elizabeth that I had received that very day. She wrote:

“I attended an event recently that catered the BEST baklava I’ve ever had. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a business sticker on the container, so I made it my mission to find out who made them so I could support their business. After an extensive Google search and speaking with Rita, I found out she was the amazing mystery baker! Not only is she an incredible baker, but she is an amazing person as well. She took me in, even though she was closed for the day and on a Zoom call. I bought a box of 12, and I’m eating them with my husband as I type this. He doesn’t even like baklava—but ‘Sheer Ambrosia Bakery’ has converted him! Do yourself a favor and buy a box as well. Thank you, Rita, for being so sweet. I will be a returning customer!”

THIS was my win. Happy customers who love what I do—this is what truly matters. Elizabeth loved my baklava so much she made it her mission to find me. Her husband, who never liked baklava, is now a fan. This is why I do what I do.

Now, don’t get me wrong—I wanted that money. Desperately. Times are lean at the bakery. When I co-owned my travel agency years ago, I never had to worry about paying bills. Now? Every month is a challenge. I miss vacations. I miss owning a home. But I made this choice. I could go get a higher-paying job—I’m educated, experienced, bilingual. But I don’t want to. I want to build Sheer Ambrosia Bakery into the multi-million-dollar business it deserves to be. And I will!

Oh...and guess what? I already am an Entrepreneur of Impact. I’m a Black woman making amazing baklava in Utah. I started with zero customers, no brand, no bakery, no concept—nothing. Today, I have my very own commercial bakery and I sell over $150,000 worth of baklava a year with just myself and a part-time employee. Fourteen stores carry my products. And I have two incredible children who believe in me.

My daughter’s text the night I lost said it all:

“I’m so sorry about how things turned out with the competition. I know how much it meant to you, and I never want you to feel let down. I truly admire your effort and dedication, and I hope you know that you’re always a winner in my eyes. I love you so much, and I’m here for you no matter what.”

My son believes in me so much, he spent more money than he should have trying to help me win. They’ve seen me work until I’ve fallen asleep standing up. They’ve seen my legs swell up from exhaustion during the holidays. They believe in me. So why did I shed even one tear?

My daughter later said something else that stuck with me:

“Mom, there will be other opportunities for you to prove your worth.”

She’s right. And honestly, this contest was flawed. A true Entrepreneur of Impact isn’t determined by how many votes people can buy. It’s about the impact they have on their community, their customers, and their family. And I have that.

The day after the contest, I shared my latest review with one of my mentors, Dr. Sidni L. Shorter. Her response?

“That’s great, Rita… but what I see here is a missed opportunity. Girl, you need to make sure that EVERY piece of baklava that leaves your bakery has your name on it.”

She was right. I called my wholesale clients, and every single one agreed to let me put my Sheer Ambrosia sticker on their boxes. Now, people will know whose baklava they are enjoying and where to find more.

So, what now? Now that I’m no longer distracted by a contest, I can do what I do best: move my business forward. Get laser-focused on growth. Master the art of marketing. Win more customers like Elizabeth. And when the next legitimate opportunity comes along, I’ll be ready.

****A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU WHO SUPPORTED ME WITH YOUR VOTES (PAID AND UNPAID) DURING THIS CONTEST. I AM DEEPLY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR KINDNESS AND ENCOURAGEMENT. ONE OF THE GREATEST LESSONS I’VE TAKEN FROM THIS EXPERIENCE IS SEEING JUST HOW FAR SOME OF YOU WERE WILLING TO GO TO STAND BY ME. YOUR SUPPORT DID NOT GO UNNOTICED, AND I APPRECIATE YOU MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!****

Sweeten Your Valentine’s Day with Sheer Ambrosia’s Irresistible Specials!

Love is in the air, and so is the buttery, flaky aroma of our handcrafted baklava! This Valentine’s Day, treat your special someone (or yourself—because self-love is just as sweet!) to a luxurious, indulgent dessert experience with Sheer Ambrosia’s exclusive holiday specials.

✨ Enjoy 20% off these decadent delights:

💘 12-piece box of Traditional Honey Walnut Baklava – Our signature baklava, made with 45 delicate layers of hand-laid, hand-buttered fillo, filled with golden-roasted walnuts and cinnamon, and finished with a luscious drizzle of our signature honey syrup.

💝 12-piece box of Chocolate Almond Baklava – A rich, chocolatey twist on our classic baklava, featuring crunchy almonds layered between paper-thin sheets of crisp fillo, lightly buttered by hand, and kissed with velvety chocolate for a flavor that melts in your mouth.

🍯 Traditional Honey Walnut Cake – A soft, moist, and utterly divine baklava cake infused with the warm flavors of honey and cinnamon, topped with a crunchy walnut crumble.

And because we love to spoil you, when you purchase one of our baklava boxes, you'll still receive our standing promotion—a free 4-piece box of baklava to enjoy or share!

🌹 A Valentine’s Day Presentation to Remember 🌹

Each baklava box will arrive in our special-edition pink and brown packaging, designed to make your gift as beautiful as it is delicious. Inside, you’ll find perfectly arranged, golden-brown baklava that glistens with sweet honey syrup. On the outside, we’ll add a Happy Valentine’s Day gift tag, ribbon and a delicate pink rose, making it a picture-perfect surprise for your loved one.

💖 Order now and make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable! 💖

These irresistible specials will be available between now and Valentine's Day, so place your order today and let Sheer Ambrosia help you say "I love you" with a gift straight from the heart.

📦 Nationwide shipping available of course. Order now to ensure delivery by Valentine's Day!

👉 USE COUPON CODE: Valentine25.

Also, don't forget about our ELECTRONIC Gift CARDS (See photo below of our special Valentine's E-Card.

#ValentinesDay #GiftFromTheHeart #SheerAmbrosiaBakery #GourmetBaklava #SweetLove

Above: Malinda Russell's self-published cookbook titled: A Domestic Cookbook: Containing a Careful Selection of Useful Receipts for the Kitchen.

Malinda Russell: A Culinary Pioneer

Born in Tennessee in 1820, Malinda Russell was a free Black woman who built a remarkable career in baking and entrepreneurship despite the challenges of her time. She initially planned to travel to Liberia as part of the colonization movement, but after being robbed along the way, she had to abandon her journey and find a new path. Turning to her love of baking, she opened a pastry shop in Virginia and became known for her exceptional cakes, pies, and breads.

In 1866, she published A Domestic Cookbook: Containing a Careful Selection of Useful Receipts for the Kitchen, making history as the first known African American woman to write and publish a cookbook. Unlike many cookbooks of her time, Russell’s focused on refined cooking and baking rather than simple, labor-intensive meals, showcasing her expertise in pastry arts. Her recipes, rich with European influences, revealed a sophisticated approach to baking and reflected the culinary excellence of Black chefs and bakers in the 19th century.

Why Malinda Russell’s Legacy Matters

Malinda Russell’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and passion. At a time when opportunities for Black women in business were scarce, she carved out a space for herself and shared her knowledge with the world. Her cookbook serves as both a historical artifact and an inspiration, proving that Black bakers have long played a crucial role in shaping American culinary traditions.

At Sheer Ambrosia Bakery, I stand on the shoulders of pioneers like Malinda Russell—women who believed in the power of their craft and pursued their dreams despite the odds. Her legacy reminds us that our talents and passions can create lasting impact, not just for ourselves, but for future generations.

This Black History Month, I invite you to celebrate the contributions of Black chefs, bakers, and entrepreneurs—past and present—who have enriched our culture with their artistry and determination. And, of course, what better way to honor history than by sharing a delicious treat with loved ones.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL! Also, thank you for reading my newsletter this month! I will never take you for granted!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever,

Rita Magalde

VOTING IS OPEN NOW!

As many of you know, entrepreneurship has been the heart of my journey throughout my adult life. From starting my first venture as a mortgage broker, to ten incredible years as the owner of a thriving travel agency, and now spending the last 17 years slowly growing Sheer Ambrosia Bakery while raising my children as a single mom, this path has been a labor of love. It hasn’t always been easy—I’ve taken on second jobs to make ends meet—but every moment has been worth it.

Now that my kids have grown and started their own journeys, I’ve been able to pour even more energy into Sheer Ambrosia. Since 2023, I’ve made significant strides: I built out a new commercial kitchen, graduated from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, hired my first non-seasonal employee, and earned certifications as a woman- and minority-owned business, as well as the ACDBE certification, paving the way for my baklava to be sold in airports. In 2024, I was honored to receive the Inaugural Business of the Year award from the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce. Sheer Ambrosia has been featured on multiple daytime TV shows, made its debut on the cover of Utah Business magazine, and has been spotlighted on NPR’s Marketplace 11 times! These milestones are just the beginning—I’m determined to keep climbing until we reach the very top.

Recently, I applied for the Entrepreneur of Impact contest on social media, and I need your help. The prize is incredible: $25,000 in cash, which would be a game-changer for my business, a feature in Forbes magazine, and a one-on-one mentoring session with Daymond John from Shark Tank.

This contest depends on votes, and I’m reaching out with all my heart to ask for yours. If you’ve ever believed in me, in Sheer Ambrosia, or in my story, please cast your vote. Be part of my “why.” I started this business during one of the hardest times in my life, as a way to rebuild for myself and my family.

Sheer Ambrosia is more than a bakery. It’s about love—love for baking, love for different cultures, love for people, and love for the journey that brought me here. It’s about blending the flavors of my Southern roots with the Mediterranean traditions I’ve come to adore and sharing that fusion with the world.

I’m inviting you to be part of this next chapter in my journey. With your support, I can continue to grow Sheer Ambrosia and share my vision of baklava with the world. Please vote for me, Sherrita “Rita” Magalde, and Sheer Ambrosia Bakery.

Click on the teal button below to cast your vote. You can vote once everyday until the contest ends.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being part of this incredible adventure. Let’s keep climbing together!

January 3rd: Me, Rita, taking a moment to

breathe and reflect. We took care of everyone,

and not a single complaint—what a relief!

The season started strong with Thanksgiving, and things kicked into high gear afterward. Late nights became the norm, with many nights stretching past midnight and even a few where I worked straight through until 4:00 a.m. On two Sundays, I didn’t go home at all, powering through to ensure every order was perfect.

Despite the demanding schedule, I was thrilled to see so many loyal, repeat customers return for their holiday baklava, even those I hadn’t seen in months. It was also heartening to welcome plenty of walk-in customers, a sign that Sheer Ambrosia’s presence in the community continues to grow.

And then there’s Desi… On Wednesday, December 18th, she stepped in and worked tirelessly, all day and through the night, to help me get the final big batch of orders out before the post office’s December 19th deadline. Thanks to her dedication, we ensured that everyone outside of Utah received their baklava in time for Christmas. I’m constantly amazed by her willingness to work so hard for a business that isn’t even her own.

Now that the holiday rush is over, things have slowed down—as they often do in January. I try not to worry too much since this is the time when many focus on New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I’m using this downtime to strategize and plan for an exciting year ahead.

I want to take this moment to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your orders, your patience, and your support throughout the season. I am beyond grateful and hope you and your loved ones enjoyed every bite of your treats. Here’s to a sweet and successful 2025! 💛

Santa's little helper!

One Night's Worth of Packages!

Marketplace has been so generous, featuring me 10 times since 2020, and I have to say—I wouldn’t have met many of you without them. Even some of my local customers first heard about Sheer Ambrosia through Marketplace. Their support has been nothing short of life-changing, and I’m beyond grateful for the opportunities they’ve given me to share my story.

Before the pandemic, I tried countless forms of marketing in my local community—flyers, events, ads—but most of it didn’t lead to major sales. The challenge was that so many people locally don’t know what baklava is. It felt like no matter how much effort I put into spreading the word, it was difficult to make a meaningful impact.

When Marketplace first called me in 2020, it felt like a miracle. It was the height of the pandemic, and things were incredibly uncertain. My wholesale clients had shut their doors, and demand for baklava had completely dried up. I had two kids to support—one in college and one in private school—and no income coming in. I ran out and secured a second job as an office manager just to keep afloat. Then, in June of that year, everything changed. Marketplace aired my story, and YOU ALL came through for me, placing orders and keeping my business alive.

Their interest in my journey and their desire to help me not just bounce back but thrive has changed the trajectory of my life and my bakery. I cannot stress enough how important they have been to Sheer Ambrosia’s growth. As I sit here writing this, I’m overcome with gratitude, reflecting on how much this partnership has meant to me.

If you’d like to hear more about my journey, I invite you to check out the new, dedicated page on my website with all 10 Marketplace episodes. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey—I couldn’t have done it without you or the Marketplace team. 💛

Always Prepared: The Perfect Gift for Any Occasion

***This is a repeat article, but I’m sharing it again in hopes of inspiring you to support us year-round, just as the article above encourages.***

-Thank you-

A few weeks ago, Jeff stopped by to pick up 20 boxes, and I decided to do something special for him. I created a personalized gift tag for his family, adding “Gifted by The Davis Family” to give it an extra touch of customization. He was thrilled with this special detail!

How often have you wished you had a special gift ready at your fingertips? How many times have you needed something unique but didn't have time to run out and get it? How often have you wished you knew in advance that you'd need a gift for a friend or neighbor? Or simply wanted to brighten someone's day with a meaningful gesture?

Let me help you be prepared for those moments. If you order at least one bundle of 10 four-piece boxes, I am happy to personalize a tag just for you. Follow the link below to order your Ten 4pc Box Bundle today, and we’ll reach out to you to discuss your special tag. When they arrive, just pop them in your freezer, and they’ll be ready whenever you need them—no last-minute store runs required.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL! Also, thank you for reading my newsletter...it was a long one this month! I will never take you for granted!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever & Happy 2025,

Rita Magalde

Thank You Zions Bank For Believing In Me!

I’m thrilled to share this incredible article by Zions Bank, highlighting Sheer Ambrosia’s story and the journey that brought us to where we are today. From fusing the Greek and Southern flavors of my childhood into every bite of baklava to overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities, this entrepreneurial path has been layered with resilience, gratitude, and joy—just like our signature baklava.

A heartfelt thank you to Michael Hanson and Zions Bank for their support in helping me expand Sheer Ambrosia and for sharing our story with their audience. Their partnership has been invaluable as I continue pursuing my dream of crafting unique, delicious, and memorable gifts for you all.

To those looking for holiday gifts, corporate gifting options, or simply a sweet indulgence, Sheer Ambrosia is here to deliver something special for every occasion.

Take a moment to read the full article and discover how passion and perseverance turned a dream into a thriving business.

Behind the Scenes at

Sheer Ambrosia:

When Challenges Arise, We Rise

The hallway right behind Sheer Ambrosia. The bright yellow fire retardant/powder from the fire extinguisher coated the floors, the walls, and the ceiling, penetrating my bakery.

A few weeks ago, I experienced one of the most challenging setbacks since moving into my new commercial bakery. Here’s what happened:

For the past several months, I have been working long hours planning and preparing for a huge three-day event called The Family Christmas Gift Show taking place at one of Utah largest venues, The Mountain America Exposition Center. Late Tuesday night, on November 12, two days before the first day of the event, I left the bakery after pulling the last of 13 pans of baklava from the oven to cool. Part of that was for the event, another 80 pieces was a donation to Habitat for Humanity the next morning, as I just joined their board and wanted to make a good impression at a big event they were having, and then some was for regular clients. When I returned early the next morning, I walked into what can only be described as a scene from a disaster movie.

My bakery is located in a mixed-use building with commercial units in the front and residential low income apartments behind. While I’ve formed good relationships with many of the residents, the building has its challenges, including a mix of mental health crises, substance abuse issues, and other unfortunate situations.

That night, one of its troubled tenants allowed two homeless men into the building. A fight broke out, and one of the men took a fire extinguisher off the wall, smashing it into the floor. The extinguisher exploded, covering the hallway in a thick layer of yellow fire-retardant powder. Worse, the powder found its way into my bakery through cracks in the door and air ventilation system.

I had to throw away all the baklava, about $2,000 worth, scrub every inch of the bakery, and start over from scratch. It was all hands on deck and what followed was a whirlwind of cleaning, remaking, baking, and cutting samples late into the night to be ready for the Christmas show event the next day. I was so embarrassed to call Habitat for Humanity and tell the CEO that I couldn’t follow through on what I’d promised her, but she was more concerned for me. She was even one of the incredible friends who came to help me late into the night to cut samples for the first day of the show the following day.

Beyond the immediate cleanup, I had to file an insurance claim, report the incident to the Department of Agriculture and Food, and consult with poison control and the fire department to ensure the bakery was safe. The property manager is taking steps to address the situation, and I’m working on doing what I can to prevent anything like this from happening again.

But that wasn’t the end of the hurdles. Shortly after this incident, another significant setback hit—that three day Christmas gift show...well, let's just say it was a huge learning experience in knowing who my clients are.

Through it all, I’m continuing to appreciate that running a small business means facing the unexpected head-on. It’s about perseverance, problem-solving, and refusing to let obstacles define my journey.

To my incredible customers: I share this not for sympathy, but to give you a fuller picture of what it takes to bring Sheer Ambrosia’s baklava to your table. Every piece of baklava we create is the result of resilience, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Your support means everything. When you choose Sheer Ambrosia, you’re not just purchasing baklava; you’re supporting a dream, a small business, and a whole lot of heart.

Thank you for being part of this journey, through the ups and the downs.

Me, Rita Magalde, Founder and CEO of Sheer Ambrosia (in the center) on the cover of Utah Business Magazine's 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

Thank you Utah Business Magazine for recognizing Sheer Ambrosia's value by showcasing our business on the cover and throughout your gift guide edition!

The "OG"...Our Traditional Honey Walnut Baklava

You can order a bundle of ten - 4pc boxes...perfect for neighbor gifts or corporate gifts. The bundle is $150 so $15 per box. Call to place an order for this option so we can go over how you want the gift tag to look. 801-891-6242

Look at how gorgeous! We have "Merry Christmas," "Happy Holidays," "Happy Hanukkah," you name it, we have the gift tag for your occasion! If we don't have it...we'll make one!

Happy to add your company logo or family name to your gift tags on all orders of 10 boxes or more.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever,

Rita Magalde

Sheer Ambrosia Newsletter October 2024

***Entire Holiday Gift Crate Contents***

I am excited to announce that Sheer Ambrosia is expanding its range of delectable treats! While our signature baklava, with its 14 delicious flavors, will always remain a favorite, our new, larger kitchen has allowed us to introduce even more delightful creations. Although new to the Sheer Ambrosia menu, these products have been cherished recipes of mine for years—each perfected over time. After months of refining the packaging, portion sizes, and presentation, I'm thrilled to finally share them with you.

To enhance your Sheer Ambrosia experience, we’ve also partnered with local artisans and suppliers to bring you a variety of complementary items. Our expanded lineup now includes carefully curated teas, coffee, hot chocolate, candles, aprons, and branded mugs. These new additions will be showcased in our 2025 calendar, titled Baklava and Beyond: Savor the New Flavors of Sheer Ambrosia, and are being added to our website.

One of the highlights of this expansion is our beautifully crafted HOLIDAY GIFT CRATE, blending our beloved baklava with the new items. Made from pine wood by a local carpenter, each crate includes:

• 1 12-piece box of Traditional Honey Walnut Baklava
• 1 lb. bag of Earthy Endeavors: Rita's Amazing Granola, a Sheer Ambrosia Original
• 1 lb. bag of Leo's Finest Premium House Blend Coffee with cinnamon notes (sourced from a top local roaster)
• 1 tin of tea (sourced from a top-tier tea connoisseur)
• 1 tin of hot chocolate (sourced from a Honduran-American woman-owned business passionate about quality chocolate)
• 5 loaded chocolate chip cookies (Sheer Ambrosia Original)
• 5 ginger snap cookies (Sheer Ambrosia Original)
• 5 Greek butter cookies (Kourabiedes) made with my cherished 35-year-old recipe
• 1 chocolate hazelnut biscotti (Sheer Ambrosia Original)
• 1 classic almond biscotti (Sheer Ambrosia Original)
• 1 branded apron in our signature colors
• 1 candle from a local woman-owned candle company
• 2 mugs featuring the Sheer Ambrosia logo
• 1 2025 calendar created with the help of a talented local photographer and an amazing stylist—special thanks to Jason West and Alex Bingham!
• To hold all the goodies, 1 handcrafted pine crate made by Black Horn Creations, another local artisan!

If you're looking for the ideal holiday gift for that foodie friend, colleague, client, or family member who seems to have everything, your search stops here! Sheer Ambrosia has meticulously curated a gift crate designed to delight the senses of any food lover. Every item has been carefully selected for its exceptional quality—only the finest made the cut. I hope these new treats bring as much joy to you and your loved ones as I’ve experienced in creating and choosing them. This is more than just a gift—it's an unforgettable experience that any foodie will cherish!

The crate is priced at $250, and we anticipate selling out quickly, as we can only create 150 of them this holiday season. If you're interested in purchasing, please call or email us to get on the list for however many you'd like.

Visit our website to explore our full range of offerings. Below, you’ll find a sneak peek of some of our new products along with their descriptions. We’re working on securing the best shipping options for these delightful treats, but local customers can always purchase and pick up directly from our bakery.

Earthy Endeavors – Rita’s Amazing Granola

Get ready to taste the best granola you've ever had! Our Earthy Endeavors Granola strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures, packed with all the good stuff. We start with hearty oats, then mix in a generous helping of almonds and pecans. The “earthy” flavor comes from pure organic maple syrup, organic coconut oil, and brown sugar, with just the right touch of vanilla and dried fruit for a delightful finish.

It’s the ideal breakfast when paired with your favorite milk or as a topping for Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey. Whether you enjoy it in the morning or as a snack, it’s bound to become your go-to. And the best part? It’s made fresh in-house at Sheer Ambrosia Bakery.

Gourmet Ginger Snaps

The "snap" in these delicious cookies is all about the flavor! We’ve added a hint of black pepper, ground ginger, and clove to create a bold, spiced treat that excites your taste buds, not your teeth. Soft with just the right amount of crunch, they offer the perfect balance of texture while delivering those cozy, fall-inspired flavors. If you're looking for an elevated version of the ginger snap cookies you loved as a child, these are the ones. Indulge in this delightful, nostalgic treat—you won’t be disappointed!

Kourabiedes – Greek Butter Cookies

Affectionately named Sofia’s Snowballs after my daughter, these traditional Greek holiday cookies hold a special place in my heart as they were the first Greek dessert I ever learned to make. Kourabiedes are buttery, crumbly, and perfectly sweet without being too sugary, despite their generous coating of powdered sugar. While there are countless variations of this cookie, I’ve remained faithful to the recipe I learned over 35 years ago. Filled with toasted walnuts, these cookies offer a rich, earthy goodness—a true taste of Greece, and now a tribute to my daughter, Sofia.

Me, Rita Magalde, Founder and CEO standing proudly in front of my bakery.

Since relocating, I've worked hard to expand and elevate Sheer Ambrosia. One of the most significant milestones has been securing three key certifications: Minority-Owned Business [received], Woman-Owned Business [should have this one in hand soon], and the coveted ACDBE (Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) certification [received] which is a program run by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to help small businesses compete for airport contracting opportunities.

These accreditations required loads of paperwork, site visits, and interviews spanning months, but I’m thrilled to have received two out of three with the third on the way! The ACDBE certification, in particular, opens up the possibility of selling my baklava in airports nationwide, giving Sheer Ambrosia a place at the table that previously seemed out of reach for small businesses like mine. None of this would have been possible if I had still been operating from home.

Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to receive two grants since moving into the new space. One of them is covering my rent for six months—thanks to Dr. Sidni Shorter for pointing me to this opportunity. The other grant, valued at $10,000, will be used to create a marketing video for Sheer Ambrosia. A special thank you to Steve Williams a friend and employee at Spy Hop - Film, Audio, Music, Design for sharing this application. I’ve already met with the production team, and we’re brainstorming to craft an ad that will build incredible momentum for the brand.

Sheer Ambrosia is also set to be featured on the cover of the November issue of Utah Business Magazine alongside two other local businesses, thanks to our holiday gift offerings. This feature will spotlight our companies because of our beautiful and thoughtful gift options for the upcoming season, and I’m honored that Sheer Ambrosia made the cut.

Expanding our wholesale business has been another exciting development, with three new locations added to our partnerships: two Alpha Coffee shops and one Hyatt Place hotel. Being able to partner with other local businesses and seeing our products in more locations has been a dream come true.

I’m also grateful for the support from the Salt Lake Chamber. Joining the Chamber has brought many new opportunities, including a feature on their “Speaking on Business” podcast, which aired on our local KSL radio station during the morning and evening commutes. It was a great way to reach more people and share the Sheer Ambrosia story.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this journey has been my recent appointment to the board of Habitat for Humanity in Salt Lake City. This is a cause close to my heart, and it’s a chance to give back to the community in a meaningful way. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to have everything figured out to be of service. While I’m still in the trenches building my own legacy, I’m committed to helping others find stability and community through affordable housing. I’m excited to work alongside its CEO, Carin Crowe and her incredible team and use my skills to make a difference. Thank you Carin for recognizing that although I don't have deep pockets, I still can add lots of value to Habitat for Humanity.

These are just a few highlights of what has been an incredible year. Yes, I’m still nervous—debt is always daunting, and I don’t have a safety net if things don’t go as planned. But I’m certain that none of these blessings would have come to fruition if I hadn’t taken the leap to move out of my home kitchen and into a commercial space. I’m going to keep pushing forward, working hard to bake the best treats possible, while collaborating with passionate people who share my love for baking. I’ll continue filling out grant applications, submitting proposals, and attending events that help Sheer Ambrosia grow.

Ultimately, I love what I do, I love who I work with, and I love who I work for. You—my baklava family—are the reason I’m here, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next. Together, we will continue to grow Sheer Ambrosia, one delicious pastry at a time.

A Surprising Honor at the Inaugural Black Wealth Conference

First Ever Black Wealth Conference in Utah

Dr. Sidni Lloyd-Shorter, President & CEO of the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce, me, and Ashley D. Bell, President of Redemption Holding.

Another Sneak Peek Photo of What's Coming to Sheer Ambrosia's Menu:

Sweet Sofia’s Hazelnut and Almond Biscotti

As a lover of old-world cookies, adding biscotti to my menu was a must. I started making them over 11 years ago and have perfected more than a dozen recipes since. Today, I’m offering two of my top flavors: Chocolate Hazelnut and Almond. True to their name, these twice-baked treats are perfect for dunking into your favorite hot beverage. With the classic European flavors of hazelnut and almond, they offer a subtle sweetness that makes them the ideal snack to have on hand for any time of day.

Final Message: If You Are Local...Join Me This Friday in Salt Lake! I'll Be the Guest Speaker.

Reserve your free ticket: https://lnkd.in/gRvFGcHn

Next target market: Florists! 🌸 A box of Sheer Ambrosia would be the perfect complement to a beautiful bouquet of flowers!

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever,

Rita Magalde

Sheer Ambrosia Newsletter - JULY 2024

Once I was determined to hire someone, I took advice from an awesome customer-turned-friend, Rob Brunt. Years ago, he suggested I consider hiring from the Afghan community he had affiliations with through his church. This idea was brilliant for many reasons. Firstly, Afghanistan has baklava in its culture, so anyone I hire would likely be familiar with and not intimated by phyllo dough, the thinnest dough in the world. Secondly, I wanted to hire women, especially responsible moms who might need a part-time job. Lastly, I have experience working with immigrant women from my first successful business, Amigo Travel. They were hardworking, grateful to have good jobs and were instrumental in helping my co-founder and I build a world class company.

On May 30, I hired my first baklava assembler from Afghanistan. For cultural, religious, and personal preference she prefers to stay anonymous and does not want her photo taken. While she speaks little English, we make it work. She understands some, but it’s the language of baklava that makes all the difference. On her first day, I set up two workstations facing each other, and through our expressions, eye contact, counting, smiles and observations, she got it!

She is a mother, has a kind heart and a strong work ethic. She assembles baklava, washes dishes, folds boxes, and keeps everything clean and tidy so I can focus on other aspects of the business.

During her interview, which she attended with her teenage daughter as translator, she told me she only spoke 3% English. I decided to give her a chance anyway. I know what it's like to live in a foreign country and not completely understand the systems and language. It's been over a month now, and I love having her here. Although I can't communicate with her as much as I’d like, maybe that’s a good thing because we get so much work done. Ha! Ha! I will satisfy my curiosity later as her English improves. The good news is we make an excellent team. We work well together, and it feels like this was meant to be. So, welcome to the Sheer Ambrosia family. I hope she will be part of our growth for many years to come.

These gift cards are PERFECT for those last-minute gift needs. Simply visit our website, select the denomination you’d like to purchase, choose the appropriate card (we have lots of options for almost any occasion, including "just because"), fill out the necessary information, including a personal message to the recipient, and voila—your gift card is ready! The recipient will receive their gift card directly in their email inbox.

No more worrying about last-minute orders. With our new digital gift cards, you can give the perfect gift instantly, and the recipient can choose exactly what they want.

Barney Boyton - Founder and CEO of Go Pave Utah

How Go Pave Utah

Builds Lasting Client Relationships

w/ Sheer Ambrosia's

Baklava of the Month Club

Since our meeting, Barney has been a tremendous supporter of Sheer Ambrosia. He is a generous gift-giver who values quality and thoughtfulness. Recognizing the unique appeal of Sheer Ambrosia’s Baklava of the Month offering, Barney has been gifting subscriptions to his clients as a way to show his gratitude. He loves receiving unexpected phone calls each month from delighted recipients and cherishes the enthusiastic responses he gets.

Barney recently mentioned, while placing another order for a valued client, that Sheer Ambrosia is the perfect tool for building relationships. He sees it as smart business to express appreciation to his clients, and our Baklava of the Month Club helps him keep Go Pave Utah top of mind while demonstrating his gratitude. It's a winning situation for Go Pave Utah, Sheer Ambrosia, and Barney's customers, who get to enjoy our unique, sophisticated, and delicious baklava. Each gift box is personalized with Go Pave Utah’s logo on the gift tag, making it even more special.

Make use of this beautiful tool in your arsenal. Let Sheer Ambrosia help you show the people in your life that you care. Whether for your business or a personal gift for a friend, we are here to help you stand out and convey your heartfelt messages.

A Sweet Collaboration:

Sheer Ambrosia and

Red Rock Candle Co.

While I started Sheer Ambrosia in 2008, as a single mom, I often had to take on second jobs to support my family. In 2017, while working as an insurance adjuster at Progressive Insurance, I met Patrick, a fellow employee. We stayed in touch after I left to pursue Sheer Ambrosia full-time. One day, Patrick reached out to let me know his daughter, Brianna, had started a candle business called Red Rock Candle Co. She gave me a couple of samples, and while I couldn't collaborate with her at that time, I kept her in mind.

Now that I have a commercial space to bake and sell, I reached out to Brianna to explore a potential collaboration. We have since worked together to create two candle scents inspired by my baklava flavors, with a third scent coming in time for Christmas. I'm excited to introduce the Apple Pie Walnut and Sugar Plum candle scents, now available under the Sheer Ambrosia brand. If you're local, you can purchase these beautiful candles in my shop. For those who live farther away, I will be offering them on my website soon.

These candles will also be featured in Sheer Ambrosia’s new holiday gift baskets, which will include our world famous baklava, kourabiedes (a Greek shortbread/butter cookie)...the first Greek dessert I ever learned to make, my special granola and biscotti recipes, Sheer Ambrosia coffee and tea sourced from the best in the business, two mugs, and a delightful Red Rock/Sheer Ambrosia candle to set the mood. More details on the gift baskets will be shared later.

I am incredibly proud of Brianna and her candle business. She makes her candles with the highest quality materials, ensuring a clean, long-lasting burn that gently fills your space with glorious scents. She pours her heart into every candle. She is an amazing young entrepreneur who has also developed a line of candles for the airport...WOW! She is growing her business while growing her family—congratulations on the new baby, Brianna! To learn more about her business, please visit www.redrockcandleco.com.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL! Also, thank you for reading my newsletter! I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I love writing them. I will never take you for granted!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever,

Rita Magalde

Sheer Ambrosia Newsletter - May 2024

Father’s Day is almost here, and I want to share a little about my dad. His name was Samuel Roberts. As a child, I worshiped the ground he walked on. Everyone called me "Sam’s Shadow" because I was always with him, ready to go wherever he went. My mom joked that my dad had “the hot foot” because he disliked staying home, and I guess I inherited that trait because I was always by his side, ready to jump in the car and GO at a moment's notice! I'm number four of five daughters, and though my dad always wanted a son, he loved us deeply.

The year before I started kindergarten, my mom went back to work, and I stayed home with my dad. He worked third shift so it made sense for our family that he take care of me during the day. We did everything together. The only downside for me was his daily nap that he needed so he could get through his night shifts. That meant I had to take a nap too and I still remember lying in my bed, listening to music from the '60s and '70s, waiting for him to wake up.

My parents ran a tight ship. We had weekly rotating chores, from washing dishes to taking out the trash, cleaning bathrooms, and folding and ironing clothes. Without a dishwasher or clothes dryer, we washed dishes by hand and hung clothes outside to dry. Other seasonal chores included hauling wood, maintaining flowerbeds, raking leaves, and harvesting vegetables.

Since my dad didn’t have a son, I was happy to step into that role. I went fishing with him, helped clean cars (my job was cleaning the whitewalls on the tires), and assisted with mowing the lawn. One year, I asked for my own garden plot, and he said yes! I sectioned off my garden with twine and planted rows of radishes, corn, beans, and other vegetables. I visited my garden daily to watch it grow. Many Sunday afternoons after church and dinner, our family would walk through the woods behind our house, enjoying the leaves, ferns, critters, and creek—always an adventure.

My dad wasn’t perfect, but he and my mom (we called them Daddy and Ma) taught us the value of a clean house and yard, knowing where fresh food comes from, and appreciating the outdoors. My childhood was filled with amazing memories: the smell of wood from the chainsaw in the fall, leaves crunching underfoot, the aroma of hot dogs cooked over a fire, fresh caught fish frying and fireflies blinking in the North Carolina countryside at dusk.

During Christmas 2007, before I started Sheer Ambrosia, my dad visited me in Utah. I was making baklava for Christmas gifts when he suggested, “You should sell this BAK-BA-LA!” He always mispronounced it, likely to make me laugh. Less than a year later, Sheer Ambrosia was born. Thanks for the advice, Daddy!

On May 4, 2016, while making baklava late into the night, my sister called to check on me. Instead of her usual check-in to make sure I wasn't burning the place down, she told me our daddy had passed away from kidney and heart complications at 72 years old. It’s been eight years since his passing, and I still miss him deeply. He was a good man, raised by his grandparents, doing the best he knew how. I hope to see him again one day.

If your dad is still alive, give him a big hug and let him know you love him.

In honor of my daddy, I’m offering the Sam Roberts Special this Father’s Day: 20% off a 12-piece box of Traditional Honey Walnut baklava or a Traditional Honey Walnut Cake. Each comes with a ribbon, a gift tag reading, “Happy Father’s Day! You Hold the KEY to my heart,” and a cute key that doubles as a bottle opener. Use the code “SAMSPECIAL” to take advantage of this offer, valid until Father’s Day.

Happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful dads out there. Miss you daddy!

If you'd like to have the baklava sent directly to your gift recipient, don't forget to include your special message in the 'notes' section during checkout if you'd like to say something else besides the message stated above. I'll personally handwrite your note on the back of our special Father's Day gift tags for that extra touch of thoughtfulness! Also, make sure to order several days in advance so we can make your baklava and have it shipped to arrive on time. We use 3 day Priority Mail so make sure to plan accordingly. Use the coupon code: SAMSPECIAL at checkout and we'll take care of the rest.

**Please note that this offer cannot be combined with any other promotions currently running at Sheer Ambrosia.**

This is what the Father's Day gift box looks like. Remember to tell your dad that the KEY is a real bottle opener!

From left to right, Diane Jackson and Lavarro Greer (Black Chamber members & amazing entrepreneurs themselves) holding the ribbon. Thanks for the balloons Lavarro! Utah State House of Representatives member Sandra Hollins, President & CEO of the Utah Black Chamber, Sidni Lloyd-Shorter, PsyD., myself, Desi Hayda, my A-M-A-Z-I-N-G assistant, and my banker Michael Hanson cutting the ribbon!

For the occasion, I prepared sample-sized pieces of three different flavors of baklava, scattered throughout the bakery, along with plenty of Kourabiedes (Greek sugar cookies), my special granola recipe, chocolate chip cookies, and almond biscotti, all made from scratch. We had an incredible time! I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended this special event.

For those who couldn’t make it or didn’t know about it, don’t worry! Sheer Ambrosia has also joined forces with the Salt Lake City Chamber of Commerce. Now that I’ve moved from Draper to Salt Lake City, I’m excited to engage with the community and businesses in this area. I am dedicated to spreading the word about Sheer Ambrosia, my baklava, and all the services my company can offer to the community. With our new commercial kitchen, I am eager to announce all that Sheer Ambrosia can do for the local public as well as corporations, with the support of the Salt Lake City Chamber.

We will be having a second ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Salt Lake Chamber on Tuesday, June 4th, from 3:00-5:00 PM here at the new location. If you are a local client, I would LOVE it if you could join us as we celebrate the growth of my business with baklava and other treats made by me, just for you.

It was a beautiful day! So many stopped in to wish me and Sheer Ambrosia well! Thank you to all those that attended! A special thank you to Lavarro for calling me early the morning of, to see what he could do to help. You saved me my dear! I appreciate you so much!

READ ABOVE INVITATION - 2nd Ribbon Cutting Coming Soon!

Always Prepared: The Perfect Gift for Any Occasion

A few weeks ago, Jeff stopped by to pick up 20 boxes, and I decided to do something special for him. I created a personalized gift tag for his family, adding “Gifted by The Davis Family” to give it an extra touch of customization. He was thrilled with this special detail!

How often have you wished you had a special gift ready at your fingertips? How many times have you needed something unique but didn't have time to run out and get it? How often have you wished you knew in advance that you'd need a gift for a friend or neighbor? Or simply wanted to brighten someone's day with a meaningful gesture?

Let me help you be prepared for those moments. If you order at least one bundle of 10 four-piece boxes, I am happy to personalize a tag just for you. Follow the link below to order your Ten 4pc Box Bundle today, and we’ll reach out to you to discuss your special tag. When they arrive, just pop them in your freezer, and they’ll be ready whenever you need them—no last-minute store runs required.

Check out Jeff's Google Review above!

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL! Also, thank you for reading my newsletter...it was a long one this month! I will never take you for granted!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever,

Rita Magalde

Sheer Ambrosia Newsletter - April 2024

With Mother's Day just around the corner, I'm excited to offer a special 20% discount to all interested parties. This discount applies to our Traditional Honey Walnut flavor, available in either cake form or as a 12-piece box. Our baklava cake is PERFECT as the centerpiece of your Mother's Day table, but if your gathering is small or you want to gift a box to your mom...the 12-piece box may be a better choice. The coupon is valid until Mother's Day, giving you a couple of weeks to take advantage of this offer!

If you'd like to have the baklava sent directly to your gift recipient, don't forget to include your special message in the 'notes' section during checkout. I'll personally handwrite your message on our special Mother's Day gift tags for that extra touch of thoughtfulness! Also, make sure to order several days in advance so we can make your baklava and have it shipped to arrive on time. We use 3 day Priority Mail so make sure to plan accordingly. Use the coupon code: HAPPYMOM at checkout and we'll take care of the rest.

**Please note that this offer cannot be combined with any other promotions currently running at Sheer Ambrosia.**

Out of the 32 members within my Goldman Sachs cohort, these 5 amazing individuals, alongside myself, comprised my 'Growth Group,' together with our Business Advisor.

This intensive 14-week business education program, developed in collaboration with Babson College, the nation's leading institution for entrepreneurship, has been an invaluable experience. Alongside 32 other small business owners, I graduated from this program armed with essential skills and personalized business advice, providing a solid foundation for Sheer Ambrosia's growth.

The program commenced on January 11, just two days after I transitioned into my new commercial kitchen, and concluded on April 5th. While it demanded considerable effort, the rewards far outweighed the challenges. A key component of the program involved crafting a new growth plan for Sheer Ambrosia. I chose to explore corporate gifting, believing that our baklava is the perfect choice for companies seeking to impress clients, prospects, and employees alike.

I've curated a stunning brochure and corporate gifting catalog, and I'm excited to hit the ground running, engaging with neighboring businesses to showcase the unique appeal of Sheer Ambrosia baklava. I've attached a copy of the catalog for your perusal.

If you're a business owner interested in discussing the possibilities of incorporating Sheer Ambrosia into your company's offerings, or if you're part of a company that recognizes the value of corporate gifting, I'd love to connect and explore potential partnerships.

Finally, if you are a small business owner and would like to know more about this game changing program, please email me and I will help you get the information you need to see if you qualify.

 My son Leo was at the graduation. Always supporting his momma!

Part of my Utah family also came out to support me on this special day! Thank you Richard, Helene, Desi, Derek, and as mentioned, by big boy, Leo! These folks are simply the BEST and I don't know what I'd do without them.

Another significant supporter of mine is Sidni Lloyd-Shorter, PsyD, (in the middle) the President and CEO of the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce. She came out for me and Helena, the owner of Taste of Louisiana, my friend and fellow cohort member. If you're local and haven't tried Taste of Louisiana yet, you are missing out! It's so so delicious...reminds me of home.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SHEER AMBROSIA! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND GOODWILL!

-Peace, Love, and Baklava Forever,

Rita Magalde

Happy New Year My Baklava People