Bergen County Resident Competes On Martha Stewart's New Show

LODI, NJ — It's probably safe to assume most New Jerseans are ready for some serious outdoor time after lengthy restrictions have left many isolated in their homes for weeks on end, but one Lodi took outdoor activities to a whole new level.

Jessica Lugo works as a television producer for ABC in New York City, but earlier this year she stepped out in front of the camera to compete in the four-episode Bakeaway Camp With Martha Stewart on The Food Network.

Lugo said she sees herself as a creative person, but she didn't experiment with baking until around three years ago.

Once she tried her hand in the kitchen and began baking regularly, "it went from doing cakes and cookies for fun to family members asking if I could do it for birthday parties," she said.

She said decided to audition for Bakeaway Camp through a friend who lives in San Francisco.

"Being a camera woman, I never saw myself being in front of a camera," she said. "But, I said, 'Sure, why not? What the heck, I'll try it.' One thing led to another and then casting called."

Lugo went on to compete on Bakeaway Camp alongside six other competitors who had to brave the outdoor elements. The winner of the first heat won a one-on-one educational session with Martha Stewart in her home kitchen, and the final victor won a kitchen filled with appliances worth $25,000.

Lugo can't yet say who won Bakeaway Camp, but she did say she enjoyed the experience of working with and learning from homemaker extraordinaire Martha Stewart.

"She is so relaxed, so down to earth, but she keeps it real," Lugo said. "And I really appreciate that because I value her opinion very much. To have her give me her feedback with no filter — for me, It was everything."

Bakeaway Camp with Martha Stewart premiers on The Food Network on May 11.