Lindenhurst Woman Grows Baking Hobby Into Macaron Treat Business

LINDENHURST, NY— Julie Catone always loved baking sweet treats to give to family and friends as gifts, but she never expected her hobby to become a burgeoning one-woman business. Born and raised in Lindenhurst, the self-taught baker was encouraged by friends to share her creations more widely, and two years ago Macarons & More by Julie was born.

When Catone lost her full-time job during the pandemic, she was able to devote more time to baking and growing her small business. She told Patch she always wanted to learn how to perfect macarons, the delicate French confection.

"They are not an easy thing to perfect," she said. "There are so many variables, which makes them different. But I enjoyed the challenge of it."

Macarons & More creates custom orders for bridal showers, sweet sixteen parties, corporate events or as favors. With the return of wedding receptions after the pandemic, demand is growing. Catone recently partnered with other local vendors to create a Mother's Day box of delicacies.

"You can do so many things with colors and flavors with macarons," Catone points out. But she only creates flavors she can use all fresh ingredients for.

"I know I personally don't like the taste of artificial ingredients."

Her friends with gluten allergies appreciate the macarons are made with almond flour.

The business has been growing from a mix of word-of-mouth, social media and a supportive local business community.

"That's why I love Lindenhurst. The other small business owners aren't just business owners, they are my friends."