About me

Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, Poppy Bakeshop was born from the warm, flour-dusted dreams of its founder, Stephanie Hurtado, a devoted home baker, wife and full-time mama to two little girls. Raised in South Pasadena, Stephanie grew up with the magic of tradition—Fourth of July parades, The Grinch every night between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and every New Year’s morning spent bundled alongside her three younger sisters, wide-eyed at the Rose Parade’s colors and pageantry. Those early moments of wonder would quietly plant the seeds of creativity, patience, and joy that now bloom in her home kitchen.

A proud graduate of California State University Los Angeles, her path was anything but ordinary. Inspired by her husband’s shared dream of one day opening a coffee shop, she pursued her culinary calling at the Institute of Culinary Education in Pasadena, where she trained as a pastry chef. It was there that she discovered not just the science of baking, but the poetry—the way a loaf of sourdough could hold both craft and comfort, or how a simple chocolate chip cookie could feel like home.

Today, she pours that same love into Poppy Bakeshop, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship with grace. Each creation—whether it’s golden-crusted Focaccia, a batch of muffins warm from the oven, or a lovingly bundled treat—carries with it the story of her family, her roots, and her dream. Her bakeshop isn’t just about bread and sweets; it’s about slowing down, savoring moments, and sharing love the way she knows best.