Diva Chocolates & Confections Inc.

About the Vendor

I am Karianne Soulsby, Owner and DivaChef of Diva Chocolates & Confections Inc. My path to divadom in pastry is a bit unconventional… (but then again, so am I!) Why Diva? What is Diva? A Diva is a “larger-than-life celebrated female singer; a woman of outstanding talent in the world of opera and theatre.” In the late 19th century, Diva literally meant “goddess” in Latin. My neighbor lovingly bestowed upon me the title of “Diva” after having to listen to me sing for countless hours through our thin condo walls. On stage and in the kitchen, I strive to be a true Diva. I first graduated from Wayne State University with a BFA in Theatre Performance. Some 22 years later, I graduated from The French Pastry School in Chicago with a L’Arte de Patisserie Certificate. At FPS I trained with some of the world's most elite pastry masters and celebrated American chefs in the fine art of pastries, desserts and confections. I have since gained experience at many top-rated Chicago area bakeries, clubs and restaurants including the critically acclaimed TRU and Zealous, Sweet Mandy B’s Bakery and the exclusive Westmoreland Country Club. Most notably, I was the opening Executive Pastry Chef at Seven Lions where I created “one of the most fun dessert menus (we've encountered) in recent memory” (Kailley Lindman, Tasting Table, 3-3-15) and “the best dish (I had) at Seven Lions, if not the best dessert (I’ve had) this year.” (ref. Breakfast Cereal Bowl, Amy Cavanaugh, Time Out Chicago 3-27-15) Most recently, I was the Pastry Chef at Onward Chicago: an upstart, fun, upscale restaurant in Rogers Park (Covid closure). I have been a professional Pastry Chef now for 14 years. I love what I do. The hours are long, the work is demanding, I work holidays and weekends and the pay is, well, let’s just say it could be a heck of a lot better (just like theatre!). Pastry, like acting, is one profession where you can truly bring your personal self into your work. I have spent many years now developing desserts and treats that

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What Makes Them Special

• No GMOs used