We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashleigh Pearson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashleigh, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I never thought I would start my own business. For twelve years I worked in kitchens for other chefs. I was creating dishes in the style of the Chefs I worked for. As I grew in my technique and my skill set I started to explore more ideas and flavor combinations that interested me. I would journal all of the ideas I wanted to create myself but didn’t necessarily fit into the repertoire of the restaurant I was working in. Without realizing it I was creating the menu of my first concept Petite Soeur.

Once I knew I had something to say, unique ideas that I conceptualized, I knew it was time to start my own business. I was confident that I had a point of view and I no longer wanted to solely lend my creations to someone else’s concept.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I specialize in creating hand painted bonbons and confections. In my business we add another layer into crafting our chocolates that also helps to emphasize their flavor. I have gotten to this point twelve years into my career, I have worked in 3 star Michelin restaurants and studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris where I graduated first in my class. The road has never been easy but I have never sought out an easy road. The challenges I have faced through my journey have prepared me for the daily life of operating a business. The world should know that everyday I strive to create something well made and delicious for each of my guests to enjoy. We use the highest quality ingredients we can source and through each dish I tell my story and share the techniques I’ve learned along the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m from DC and there is nothing more special than exploring the museums of the Smithsonian or biking/walking the monuments near the national mall. DC has amazing Ethiopian cuisine and for dinner you can eat something as simple as a half smoke from Ben’s Chili Bowl or a complex dinner at one of the Michelin starred restaurants in the area

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I know many may say this but there is no single person more integral to my success than my mother. Wether it was giving me a ride to my first job, lifting me from my darkest days when I would call her from Paris, or keeping me humble, she was always there.

Website: Petite-soeur.com

Instagram: @petitesoeurdc

Image Credits
Image of Myself outside, Image of blue chocolate bar, image of half a box with a chocolate upside down, image of 16 piece box All of the above images must be credited to Mariah Miranda photography Gray and black chocolate bars, blue 9 piece box, gold leaf chocolate close up, and cocoa nib brittle Above were taken by myself and can be credited as Petite Soeur

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.