Knowledge Friday with Lori Chemla and Carissa Waechter

How much do you love a croissant from Carissa’s Bakery? How much do you know about Carissa Waechter herself, her co-founder Lori Chemla, and the story of their road to success? The Church will host a Knowledge Friday discussion on September 1, at 6 p.m. between Waechter and Chemla, two local legends who know the recipe for success and sustainability and great food. Learn how something as simple as baking bread progressed into the “fortuitous accident” that has become the esteemed retail bakery of the East End.

According to Carissa’s bakery co-founders, success is measured by the “number of familiar faces that return to our stores each year.”

Carissa’s Bakery was grown from deep East End roots. The foundation of its bread program was a sourdough starter first fermented in Amagansett; its famous Salted Soured Pickled Rye was born from ingredients sourced from a local farm stand neighbor and a Southampton rye starter. They continue to source locally, supporting local small growers and producers. This choice is part of the founders practice to live responsibly, prioritizing organic and sustainable farming and fair-trade practices while minimizing waste and use of plastics.

Carissa Waechter, an honored graduate from the Art Institute of New York City and pupil of acclaimed pastry champion Michel Willaume, enjoyed a successful culinary career in New York at prominent restaurants such as Daniel. Transitioning to the East End, she co-managed the Amagansett Farmer’s Market and founded Carissa’s Breads in 2010, emphasizing local ingredients. Carissa’s Bakery now has multiple locations, including the original East Hampton location, a restaurant on Pantigo Road and the newest bakery on Bay Street in Sag Harbor.

Lori Chemla is the managing partner of Carissa’s Bakery, founded in 2017. Before that, she was active in ALTOUR, the travel company founded by her husband, Alexandre. She is a founding member and trustee of the South Bronx Early College Academy and board member of the Bard Center for Curatorial Studies, the Chinati Foundation and the Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF). She has three daughters and four grandchildren.

Tickets for Knowledge Fridays are $10 (free for members). The Church is at 48 Madison Street, Sag Harbor. For more information, visit thechurchsagharbor.org.