The sweet life for Daniel pretty much boils down to Grandma, Super Grover, and The Big C.Daniel’s early inspirations to make the art and science of baking a professional pursuit began, like most, from the desserts made with love by his grandmother. An important sentimental memory that sparked his imagination and symbolizes the joy and surprise that could be created with just a handful of ingredients was the bright blue birthday treat made in his grandmother’s Linden, NJ home. Complete with a pink cookie nose worthy of a Muppet, her “Grover Cupcakes” brought to life the whimsy and fun of baking.From then on, Daniel was hooked, even endeavoring vocational pursuits as early as 12 years old, building his practical experience at a young age. A high school valedictorian, Daniel applied his intellect further, earning his way into the New Jersey STARS program, which provided high-achieving students with free tuition at their home county college. Too good to pass up, Daniel pursued an associate degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management, graduating from Middlesex County College with highest honors. Throughout his educational years Daniel has been inducted into the National Technical Honors Society, the Rotary Club, amongst other various organizations.After an internship at “The Fine Art of Cakes” he ventured on to various bakeries and pastry shops applying his talents to the trade and continuing to pick up skills along the way. Stints at “Gourmet Touch Bakery” and ‘Confections of a Rock$tar” led to a bakery manager position at a high-volume corporate retail location. Also noted, is Daniel’s battle with cancer in his mid-twenties that forced him down a path to become the Executive Pastry Chef at The Highlawn Pavilion.Daniel also appeared on Food Network’s Big Time Bake Season 1 Episode 3 as an assistant for his best friend.