By Karla Walsh

Sammy Mila, the new owner of Crème, says she’s eager to “share my creations in a way that’s approachable, accessible, and best of all, local.” Photo: Dera Burreson

WhenChristina Moffatt’s parents started struggling with health challenges in 2021, she knew she couldn’t be a mom, wife, daughter, bakery owner, businesswoman, community advocate, public speaker and charity board member all at once. So she quietly put out feelers to individuals who she thought might be able to carry on the legacy of her beloved-since-2010 bakery brand, Crème. Moffatt found a familiar face—onewhoseworkyou’veseenin dsm magazine—to take over: Sammy Mila.

The conversations began in November 2021. This summer, Mila has been transitioning out of her role as a full-time food stylist and recipe developer at Dotdash Meredith. As of June 1, she has been the official owner. “Sammy is an amazingly talented and hardworking individual, and she was focused on keeping my staff—which was the most important thing to me,” Moffat tells dsm. “I know Sammy will do amazing things with Crème.”

As a reintroduction to the neighborhood and to celebrate Crème’s 10-year anniversary, Mila and team are hosting an open house on Wednesday, Aug. 3, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Stop in for free mini cupcakes while supplies last, and stick around to buy a regular-sized cupcake in your favorite flavor. If the cupcake you choose is filled with sprinkles, you’ll win a free gift card to the shop. Crème is at 543 28th St., just off Ingersoll Avenue.

Baking has been Mila’s passion since she decided to shift her major from biochemistry to culinary science at Iowa State University in 2009. “I love the chemistry, consistency and satisfaction baking brings to the table,” Mila says. “I’ve always wanted to have my own little space to treat as my ‘edible chemistry lab’ where I can throw flavors and brilliant colors together to create something different yet in an approachable way.” Read more about Mila’s ideas for new menu additions on dsm’s website.

Crème is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with expanded hours coming soon. Keep up with the evolving menu and upcoming events at cremecupcake.comand on Instagram at @creme_dsm.