Sweet Success

Amanda Hanna toured cupcake shops from New York to Chicago before deciding what, exactly, she wanted her own to be. Her decision? Fun. Columbus has obviously bought into Bakery Gingham's casual, whimsical approach. Since opening four years ago in German Village, it already has added a second location in the Short North. Now, Hanna has five employees and countless fans, from brides to corporations. She also keeps the neighborhood folk smiling with her weekly cupcake happy hour. "It started with me out of my kitchen, baking in pajamas," she said. "I don't usually get to bake anymore. But I do love events-meeting people, talking about my product, telling the story." The friendly 32-year-old, who left the corporate world to pursue this passion, lives in German Village with her husband, Bob.

Lifestyle

My greatest passion: Making every day count

My biggest annoyance: Politics in casual conversation

My favorite place to be: On my road bike. I have been a cyclist for four years now, and I've put 5,000 miles on my bike.

My ideal day includes: Spending time with my husband. A ride. And a nice dinner with a big bottle of wine-that's another passion of mine!

For my last supper, I would choose: To be on Amelia Island, off of Florida. They have a lot of open patios with fountains. Having seafood when you're there-there's nothing better.

When I want to truly treat myself, I: Oh, spa! Have a spa day.

The last thing that made me smile is: My husband. He does the little things that people forget. On Sunday, he bought me a stack of magazines and left a note in the middle that said "I love you."

Favorites

Hobby: Writing

Book: "The Devil Wears Prada"

Band: Fleetwood Mac

Movie: "Love Actually"

City: Boulder, Colo.

Sound: My bulldogs snoring. For some reason, it's in sync, and it kind of helps me sleep.

Charity: Cakes for a Cause, which benefits the Mid-Ohio Foodbank