THE TEAM BEHIND THE FLAVOURS

TASTEMAKERS

At the heart of J’AIME is our exceptional all-female team.

These women are not only amazing chefs and professionals but also world travellers, beekeepers, endurance sport lovers, ukulele players, and dedicated mothers. Their strength, creativity, and collaboration exemplify the remarkable capabilities of women working together.

Bridget O'Sullivan – Co-owner / General Manager

We think Bridget deserves an honorary medal for making macarons widely available in New Zealand. An insightful businesswoman, Bridget leads the team with grace and grit. Her calm demeanour, eye for detail and limitless creativity for flavour combinations are the perfect ingredients for J’AIMEs success over 15 years.

Denise Morreau – Co-Owner / Marketing & Design

Originally from Brazil with Italian heritage, Denise was our designer for over a decade before officially joining our team. With a keen eye on the latest design trends, Denise’s extensive design experience spans Latin America, Europe and New Zealand. Her love of creating beautiful things include fine jewellery, scent design, and now, delicious treats.

Susannah van Slooten – Kitchen Lead, Pastry Chef

Our super talented Kitchen Lead is the creative force behind our macaron collections and confectionery, always emphasising the use of fresh, seasonal produce. Susannah's passion for food extends well beyond the kitchen; she is a dedicated beekeeper, cultivates her own vegetables and fruit, and raises chickens. Beyond her culinary expertise, Susannah is an avid off-piste skier, a world traveler, and a whiz with Excel spreadsheets.

Kate Sekulla – Retail Lead & Pastry Chef

Our "blowtorch Kate" is the expert hand behind all things bruléed. A skilled pâtissier, she’s the driving force keeping our Merivale Store at its best. Kate's extensive culinary journey includes owning her own restaurant and working at distinguished hospitality and retail business in Christchurch. Hailing from a family of chefs, Kate's deep connections within Christchurch keep us informed about everything happening in the city. She's our pastry guru and life advisor—or is it the other way around?