A journey from farm to kitchen
Growing up in a small farming community near the sea in New Zealand, I was surrounded by fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and the simple joy of homemade food. Family dinners at my grandparents' house featured towering trays of pumpkin scones and rice pudding with crisp, sugary edges. One of my favourite memories is of watching my Granny Lorna meticulously decorate a fondant-iced fruitcake as she delicately crafted piped designs that looked like draped lace.
From a young age, I was drawn to creativity and imagination, often making beautiful things out of whatever I could find. My mum encouraged this creativity, and our home was filled with handmade trinkets, paintings, and objects. When I discovered the local library's treasure trove of cookbooks, my creative spark ignited a passion for baking. I’d bring home stacks of cookbooks, bookmarking recipes, creating shopping lists, and spending weekends baking up a storm— cookies, slices, layered cakes, muffins, everything!
School wasn’t really my thing, so I left early and threw myself straight into kitchens and full-time work. That’s when I discovered my true calling - I went on to complete my studies as a qualified chef, worked in award-winning restaurants, and headed overseas.
In Edinburgh, I embraced the city’s rich culinary culture, baking hundreds of scones in Edinburgh Castle’s kitchens, and gaining management experience with a top hospitality group. My travels through Europe fuelled my love for food and inspired new ideas. This journey eventually led me to Melbourne—a city known for its food, wine, and vibrant hospitality scene.
Melbourne was a revelation, with access to incredible produce, beautiful flowers, and a buzzing food culture. I worked in various hospitality roles, loving every moment of service, customer interaction, and creativity. But my goal was always clear: to open my own business. So, in classic Gina style of “jump before you think”, I opened Miss Ladybird Cakes and went for it.
