SWEET SOULS

Words: Joshua Brosnahan Photos: Sarah Rowlands

Sisters Rea and Taina Scur have created something wonderful with a boutique patisserie, and it’s nothing short of a decadent experience.

A short step off Cashel Mall, through the Guthrey Centre, you’ll find Sweet Soul. Specialising in fine Parisian style desserts, the aim is to offer the best possible taste, experience and aesthetic that you would find on the cobbled back streets of Paris – which Sweet Soul does effortlessly. Fresh desserts are created daily, with flavours like cherry blossom, matcha, and warm spiced apple. You’ll be back for more and more.

The Scur sisters grew up in Brazil. Taina arrived in New Zealand over a decade ago, while on holiday from her university studies. As with so many other visitors, she was captivated by Aotearoa, put her studies on hold, and decided to stay longer.

“It was only ever supposed to be for six months, and so far, it’s been twelve years! The entrepreneurship bug took over from my passion for business law and lead me to opening Sweet Soul with Rea.”

Younger sister Rea says their “family’s European roots was part of the reason I fell in love with French patisserie and began my French patisserie training. Fine patisserie is an art of concentration and precision, from the beginning of the recipe until the end of the decoration. As you can imagine, there is a lot of patience involved.”

The sister’s strong bond is apparent – this helps the duo run the business together. Rea states that from their initial conception of the Sweet Soul brand they “knew that our different work experience and backgrounds would add to the business but being sisters, we felt comfortable expressing our opinions in a straightforward manner”.

The pair play off each other’s talents – with Rea managing the kitchen and staff, and Taina on the front line working with customers. Taina mused on this dynamic.

“Some of Rea’s strengths, are my weaknesses, and vice versa; but this gives us the balance,” she said.

The sisters ensure the team has a holistic approach to the pastries offered.

“When working on new concepts for our desserts, the most important thing is the approval of the whole team – their opinion is extremely valuable to us, as we all need to be proud of every product made here”

The team celebrate Chinese New Year, Christchurch Pride, Matariki, and more, with a limited run of themed desserts. There’s a connection to our city through their art, and it’s appetising.

“We couldn’t be more happy and grateful for Christchurch, and how Sweet Soul has been received. You made the previous two years so amazing, and we’re approaching 2020 with such excitement. It will be full of new and exotic flavours, combinations, textures, and techniques. We will surprise your paladar with remarkable experiences.

“Everyone is always enthusiastic for our new desserts, and even personally bring ideas to the team. So far it’s been such a fantastic connection.”

sweetsoul.nz