Testimonials
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“The International School of Baking: where do I start?? Marda Stoliar is absolutely the best! As an entrepreneur who’s business was expanding, I needed some straightforward and practical teaching to add a bakery to my gourmet shop in Honduras. I searched the world over, and found myself finally taking lessons in Bend. From the start, I knew this was a different class—simply structured, but incredibly complete, and tailored to every one of my needs!
Needless to say, I got more than I was looking for from Marda. She helped me set up menu options for my target market, taught me the right techniques for it all, and even helped me out with the entire bakery’s layout! This has been the most complete course I’ve ever taken, and when I am ready for more, this is where I will return." - Veronica Flefil de Bueso (Tu's Honduras Mesa Artesanal) |
What a wonderful experience it has been to learn the art of baking from Marda Stoliar. Her knowledge and experience in European baking is extensive, and she graciously and willingly imparts that knowledge to her students. She takes a keen interest in anyone wanting to learn the art of beautiful breads and pastries. I have taken three classes at her school in Bend, Oregon, and she has traveled to teach on site at my bakery five times. In addition to this, there are numerous times that I have consulted on the phone with her regarding various baking questions. One of the incredible components of Marda’s curriculum is that she is able to tailor the classes to suit the needs of the particular bakery. All of the bakery staff love working with her because Marda is able to teach at every skill level without sacrificing her great attention to detail. She brings out the best in every staff member. We have had specific instructions in gum paste flowers, chocolates, cookies and bars, tarts, cheesecakes, Viennoiserie, bread baking (both straight and sourdough methods), choux paste, special occasion cakes and wedding cakes. Marda is an artist, and her passion for the art and beauty of baking is clearly the driving motivation behind her teaching, consulting and continued success. We can attribute our success as an artisan bakery to her excellent instruction and her superb skills as a mentor. Ezdan Fluckiger, The Bread Doctor
Ezdan Fluckiger, Owner of The Bread Doctor
“I have been taking classes from Marda Stoliar for 18 years and have enjoyed every one of them. Some classes I have even taken twice! Over the years I have learned so much about breads, pastries, cakes, tarts, English muffins, bagels, and numerous other baked and chocolate goodies. The one-on-one 3-day class on croissants and Danish was absolutely the best! The products were superb and looked like they came right out of a French bakery. And they didn’t just look pretty, they tasted great. I learned so much! Reading a formula is one thing but actually having Marda demonstrate the process makes a big difference in the outcome. Marda has really expanded my knowledge in baking and pastry, and I highly recommend her classes to all levels of people, from beginners to professionals.“ Lois Johnson (USA)
“I decided to open a bakery with little bread baking experience. I had to learn a lot and fast, and quite frankly was skeptical about what I could learn in 3 days at the International School of Baking. I not only came home able to turn out a professional looking, wonderful tasting breads that amazed my partners, but everything I was taught stuck in my head. When I got home, I found I didn’t have to look up facts and even numbers—I remembered everything.
Marda teaches in a casual, un-stressful way that was geared to my level of expertise. Since I have returned home, I have used Marda as an ongoing resource with questions and problems. She always has the answers, and is generous with her time answering quickly. I can’t wait to get back to get to the next level!” - Deborah Helm, Mission Restaurants, San Diego, CA
Marda teaches in a casual, un-stressful way that was geared to my level of expertise. Since I have returned home, I have used Marda as an ongoing resource with questions and problems. She always has the answers, and is generous with her time answering quickly. I can’t wait to get back to get to the next level!” - Deborah Helm, Mission Restaurants, San Diego, CA
"After being in the restaurant business for many years, I felt it was time to enhance my menu with baked on premises breads. After reading many artisan books and trying a few techniques on my own, with little success, it was time for some hands on schooling. After searching the Internet, I came across the International School of Baking. A one on one class fits my style of learning. A lot was accomplished from 9 to 5 for five days, with an excellent instructor. All the equipment and product you work with is top notch and what you learn from Marta is priceless. Marda makes herself available via email or phone for after class follow up if you have questions or problems with your baking. Believe me, I had plenty of issues and with Marta’s advice and help, each problem was eventually solved. I highly recommend the International School of Baking for anyone who needs personalized instruction plus follow up advice." - Andrew Munao, Sr
Past Students
With hard work, a commitment to European style baking methods and the highest quality ingredients, Larry and Sandie Feemster have turned their family run bakery, Some Crust, into an institution. Seriously, loyal customers from all over Southern California flock to their thriving bakery in the heart of Old Town Claremont for their consistently exceptional gourmet baked goods.
Sandie has an impressive background in business and Larry has been able to combine his training at the famed International School of Baking with his years of experience as a Food Industry Executive. So as a family they have been able to create a business based on quality and service. The bakery has been recognized on television news and in national publications for it’s exceptional handmade baked goods, Gift Pails, and Care packages. Larry & Sandie Feemster, Owners, Some Crust Bakery
Sandie has an impressive background in business and Larry has been able to combine his training at the famed International School of Baking with his years of experience as a Food Industry Executive. So as a family they have been able to create a business based on quality and service. The bakery has been recognized on television news and in national publications for it’s exceptional handmade baked goods, Gift Pails, and Care packages. Larry & Sandie Feemster, Owners, Some Crust Bakery
Artisan Harvest celebrates the legacy of the neighborhood bakeshop! The concept derived as a direct reflection of the owner’s interests. Both believe that the Lawrenceville and surrounding communities have a need for a good bakery. Artisan Harvest is a unique destination, blending pastries, breads, coffees and teas with seasonal items and retail merchandise. - Paul Graf and Judy Koegler Graf
