DEDE WILSON is a self-taught pastry chef whose specialities include chocolate work and wedding cakes. She has worked professionally for more than ten years as a restaurant pastry chef, bakery owner, caterer, and recipe developer. Currently, Dede's focus is on teaching, baking for private clients, and writing about food in local newspapers and national magazines such as Cook's Illustraated and Pastry Art and Design. She is an active member of the IACP and resides in wester Massachusetts.