Huntsville, being a military defense hub, is home to people with an abundance of knowledge, creativity, and courage. These women are no exception, as they have served our country and gone on to fulfill their passions while serving the community in different ways.
Wafel-Bitte
After four years in uniform and nearly three decades in federal law enforcement, Bailey Erickson turned her focus to entrepreneurship, partnering with her daughter Alexis, an Air Force veteran and current Reservist at Maxwell Air Force Base. The idea for Wafel-Bitte was born in 2020, as Bailey was determined to pass on practical skills before Alexis departed for military service. Together, they chose a product rooted in joy and memory: authentic Belgian Liège waffles, inspired by their travels in Europe. Wafel-Bitte has grown into a nationally distributed waffle mix brand, with both traditional and gluten-free options.
Look for Wafel-Bitte on EZCater and for their new mobile “waffle wagon.” @wafelbitte
Shay la vie
After 5 years as a Naval Chef and 12 years following as a restaurant Chef, pastry Chef & Chocolatier, 2020 became a critical turning point in Shay Hawley's 17-year career. As a single mother, as well as a disabled veteran, she decided to step away from the corporate world and start Shay la Vie, a private chef and elite catering service. Shay and her family packed their bags and drove across the country to a small southern city they didn't know existed to start a new life & legacy. Now she balances her life as a mother with a passion for cooking in a way most only dream about.
Reach out about your next catering event with Shay at @chefshaylavie
Petite Fete
Jaz Pylant is originally from Long Island, New York but has been a proud Huntsvillian since 2014. She spent 6 years in the Air Force Reserves stationed in both Montgomery, AL and Goldsboro, NC. In 2021 she planned and executed her own intimate sized wedding leading to a love of small parties with special touches. As this love of sourcing and planning continued to grow, Jaz took a leap and officially launched Petite Fête in 2024. Whether it’s a baby shower, birthday, kid's party, or dinner celebration, the goal is to help bring the client’s vision to life.
Start your party planning by contacting Jaz @petitefetehsv or thepetitefete.com