Valerie Gordon is a celebrated chocolatier, chef, and entrepreneur whose creative vision has elevated her company, Valerie Confections, into one of the nation’s most respected confectionery brands. She launched the company with her husband and partner Stan Weightman Jr. in 2004 with a single product — chocolate-dipped toffee — and has since expanded into chocolates, truffles, petits fours, baked goods, and a beloved neighborhood cafe, Valerie Echo Park. After nearly 20 years in the business, her work transcends the culinary space alone, often intersecting with the design, fashion, wellness, and luxury spheres. Known for her charm, wit, and infectious energy, Valerie is one of the most well-known food personalities and trusted tastemakers in Los Angeles. 

In 2009, Valerie’s interest in historic California desserts led her to recreate the iconic Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake — now once again a beloved dessert in L.A. that’s also available for nationwide shipping on Goldbelly. In 2013, she penned a cookbook, Sweet, which was a James Beard Award finalist. Not one to be limited in her culinary pursuits, Valerie’s passion for barbecue inspired her to create numerous recipes for desserts cooked over an open fire, and she now relishes her role as the curator and MC of the BBQ Bootcamp at the upscale Alisal Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley. 

Valerie has been featured in countless top-tier media outlets, including the New York Times, Vogue, T Magazine, House & Garden, the Los Angeles Times, and Food & Wine. She is also a seasoned television host and judge, having appeared on a number of Netflix and Food Network shows, and has led a multitude of cooking segments on popular local and national outlets. As a proud member of the AAPI community and a female founder, Valerie is a vocal supporter of AAPI causes and small business owners in Los Angeles and beyond. She also participates in countless nonprofit causes.

In 2022, Valerie and Stan moved the company to a new 5,000 square-foot headquarters in Glendale, where Valerie is hosting public, corporate, and sponsored events; teaching hands-on cooking and baking classes; and continuing to grow Valerie Confections as a perennial luxury brand. Follow @valerieconfctns for her signature #ValerieBakes series of cooking videos, and subscribe to her Substack Hi Gang for Valerie’s exclusive monthly recipes and lifestyle recommendations.