A Legacy of Creativity, Craftsmanship & Innovation

Valerie Gordon is a celebrated chocolatier, chef, and entrepreneur whose creative vision has shaped Valerie Confections into one of the most respected and beloved luxury confectionery brands in the country.

Co-founded in 2004 with her husband and business partner Stan Weightman Jr., Valerie Confections began with a single product: chocolate-dipped toffee. Today, the brand offers an elegantly curated selection of chocolates, truffles, petits fours, baked goods, and more—while also operating the beloved Valerie Echo Park café.

Beyond the culinary world, Valerie’s influence extends into design, fashion, and the luxury lifestyle space. Known for her charisma, wit, and artistic flair, she is regarded as one of Los Angeles' most influential tastemakers and food personalities.

A Culinary Visionary & Trailblazer

Reviving a California Classic
In 2009, Valerie’s passion for historic California desserts led her to revive and perfect the iconic Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake—now a staple dessert in Los Angeles and available nationwide via Goldbelly.

Celebrated Author & James Beard Award Finalist
Her cookbook, Sweet—a James Beard Award finalist—showcases her mastery of confections and innovative approach to classic desserts.

Pioneering Fire-Kissed Desserts
Valerie’s culinary curiosity has also led her into open-flame cooking, where she experiments with desserts prepared over live fire. She now serves as curator and MC for BBQ Bootcamp at the prestigious Alisal Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley.

Television & Media Appearances
A seasoned television host and judge, Valerie has appeared on Netflix and Food Network programs, as well as national and local cooking segments. Her work has been featured in top media outlets, including:

The New York Times
Vogue
T Magazine
House & Garden
Los Angeles Times
Food & Wine

Advocate for Women & AAPI Entrepreneurs
As a proud AAPI business owner, Valerie actively supports women entrepreneurs and small businesses across Los Angeles and beyond. Her passion for mentorship, community building, and charitable initiatives remains central to her work.

Continuing the Valerie Confections Legacy

In 2022, Valerie and Stan expanded their vision, relocating to a state-of-the-art 5,000-square-foot flagship bakery and chocolate shop in Glendale. The new space houses production kitchens, a boutique, expanded shipping operations, and an outdoor garden, designed to bring luxury confections to an even wider audience.

Beyond crafting exceptional chocolates, Valerie continues to host public and corporate events, hands-on baking and cooking classes, and curated experiences that celebrate her passion for food, craftsmanship, and artistry.

Follow Valerie’s Journey

Get exclusive recipes & lifestyle tips on Valerie’s Substack

Follow her on Instagram @thevaleriegordon for her signature #ValerieBakes cooking videos

Visit ValerieGordon.com for more about her latest projects and appearances

Experience the artistry of Valerie Gordon—where tradition, innovation, and elegance meet.