Back in the fall of 2015, while driving to the studio, a “Coming Soon” sign above a bakery logo, Daphne’s Desserts caught my eye. I parked and walked down the street to investigate. Sure enough, a bakery within walking distance of the studio was opening soon. I was ecstatic.
I made a point to attend the bakery’s October 11, 2015 Grand Opening. What a lovely space. This was going to be a woman-owned business I felt good about supporting.
Over time, and many calories later, I have had the pleasure of becoming acquainted with the owner, Daphne O’Neal. She is warm, gracious and professional. The recipes for her line of sweet bean pies and streusels date back to 1923, made by Daphne’s great, great grandmother. Five generations later, Daphne has taken these original recipes and is using the finest organic ingredients for her desserts, just as her great, great grandmother would have. Her organic coffees with names like “Layer Cake” and “Velvet Soul” are some of the best I’ve ever had.
The bakery and seating areas are bright and cheerful. It occurred to me that the space would be ideal for student art shows. Since I had just met the owner, and they were still so new, I hesitated bringing it up.
During the busy 2015 holiday season with Pastimes’ student art showcase and piano recital at other venues, I had neglected to stop in at Daphne’s. When I finally found a moment to do so in January, they were so welcoming, asking where I had been and gave me a big hug! It warmed my heart. I finally felt comfortable inquiring about the possibility of hosting a student art showcase there.
Daphne and I sat down over coffee to discuss the logistics. I was thrilled to learn she already had in mind to showcase local artists’ work at the bakery. It was an honor to receive her invitation for my students to exhibit their drawings and paintings in March 2016. Squeee!
On Sunday, March 6, 2016 at 7PM, Pastimes proudly hosted the Gallery Opening Party for 21 student exhibitors plus guest exhibitor and office manager, Jessica Lee Sanders.
Students, family and friends helped with the installation.
Pastimes piano students, Aidan Caplan and Cameron Carr provided beautiful keyboard background music during the installation and party. 
Certificates of Merit were awarded to participants.
Guests enjoyed delicious organic coffee, tea and baked goodies over great conversations and beautiful artwork.
Artwork will be on exhibit at Daphne’s Desserts until Sunday, March 20, 2016 during store hours. Come on by!
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Pastimes For a Lifetime is located in Valley Glen, California. 818-766-0614. School is open Tuesdays – Saturdays year round, except for major holidays.
For more on Pastimes for a Lifetime’s Art Curriculum and founder/instructor Linda Wehrli, visit the website or Facebook page.
I’ve been committed to continuing lifelong learning and inspiring creative thinking through art and music since 1989. I’d love to meet you! You’re welcome to chat with me on Zoom or stop by the studio. Just shoot me an email at Linda@pastimesinc.com and I’ll be glad to set up a mutually convenient time.
I am delighted with this good public relations accomplishment for Pastimes.inc. In Las Vegas, where I live, no such activities appear to exist. There used to be a Coffee Bar and Artists’ meeting place and display in my neighborhood that I used to frequent. However, it went broke and is no longer there. I wish it would resurrect but have little confidence that it will.
Thank you for the kind words. Perhaps the property owners can be reached and encouraged to promote the space to local art organizations to rent for pop up shows and workshops.
Great art, food, music and conversation – all in one evening! Daphne’s is a great place to showcase your students’ artwork and I’m sure they’ll get great exposure over the next two weeks. 🙂
So glad you enjoyed the event! Indeed!