Our Mission

To bring bold, creative, and delicious American-style baked goods to the Netherlands, with a focus on quality, creativity, and community.

Meet The Bakers

Hey there! I’m a baker, social media enthusiast, and workshop coordinator at The Sweet Spot, based right here in the Netherlands.

My baking journey began in the most unexpected way—left home alone as a kid (oops), I stumbled across a cookie recipe on the back of a Honeycomb cereal box. Hungry and curious, I gave it a go... and to my parent’s surprise, it turned out pretty dang good! That little kitchen adventure lit the spark, and I haven’t stopped baking since.
Originally from the cozy state of Vermont in the U.S., I’ve always been inspired by the warm, comforting flavors of fall—think maple, cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin spice. They’re my go-to flavors when I’m feeling nostalgic, and they’ve definitely found their way into my signature bakes.

Seven years ago, I moved to the Netherlands I’ve been sharing my love for bold, creative, American-style baked goods with fellow expats and curious Dutchies ever since.

Whether I'm whipping up something delicious, hosting workshops, or sharing content on social media, I’m all about bringing joy, flavor, and a little sprinkle into every home.

Ashley

Tess

Meet Tess – The Heart Behind the Cakes

Hi, I’m Tess North – cake designer, flavor enthusiast, and founder of The Sweet Spot, established in 2015. My journey to baking professionally started long before piping bags and pastry school. I grew up in the vibrant city of Las Vegas and spent my early adult years in Utah, surrounded by the beautiful chaos of a big family. With parents who ran their own business and were often on the go, my siblings and I spent summers at Grandma’s house – a place filled with love, creativity, and the smell of something baking.

It was there, in my grandma’s kitchen, that I learned the magic of baking. She taught us everything from sewing and crochet to reading and, most importantly, how cooking for someone can make them feel cared for and appreciated. Her gingersnaps were my absolute favorite! And her famous rolls? Only I have the recipe. She never wrote them down, she baked from memory and feeling. These recipes are more than just food; they’re pieces of my story.

In my 20s, I packed my bags and moved to the Netherlands as an au pair. What was meant to be a temporary adventure turned into a permanent home. I fell in love with the culture, the people, and the opportunity to build a life rooted in creativity and connection. I even helped launch the International Food Fair in Amersfoort, where from 2015 to 2018, a group of passionate expats came together to celebrate global flavors and create a welcoming space for everyone.

To deepen my craft, I earned a pastry degree from Culinair Centrum Beverwijk in 2015. That same year, I founded The Sweet Spot – a dream turned reality where I could share my love for baking with others. Later, I spent nearly three years in Montreal as a lead cake designer, honing my skills and soaking up inspiration from a city known for its culinary flair.

Baking is more than a profession for me – it’s how I stay connected to my roots and share a sense of belonging. Moving countries (twice!) taught me that home isn’t always a place; sometimes it’s a taste, a memory, or a moment shared. Through my cakes, I offer a piece of that feeling to others.

Now, I’m thrilled to breathe new energy into The Sweet Spot with the help of my amazing co-partner, Ashley. Together, we’re bringing fresh ideas, bold flavors, and even more heart to everything we create. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, missing home, or simply craving something sweet, we’re here to make it meaningful – one slice at a time.