Jacob & Hannah N.
Through various overlapping friendship circles, I had the privilege to really get to know Jacob as he pursued his love for Daniel, my sweet college friend.
Jacob and I became fast friends, and some of my favorites of our time spent together is memories in the kitchen. Jacob so clearly lived a creative posture we should all strive for. It’s people-centric and prolific. It means the ovens are full and people around you feel warm on the inside. Beauty seeping out of the corners of every conversation, heavenly images and memories captured, unmistakable beauty as we topped each other’s wine glasses, sharing giggles while bending over the pile of dirty dishes in the sink.
I felt connected to this beautiful person in a variety of ways, but bread really sealed the deal. I’m fortunate enough to have discovered bread-making as a creative practice a number of years ago, and I still smile when I think about the influx of text messages, calls, and photos sent to me during the sourdough-stage of the pandemic. Jacob sent me some of my favorite messages about bread-making, and it was an absolute gift to see him dedicate himself to a craft so beautifully. There’s probably a ton of phrases about baked goods made with love making all the difference, and I think Jacob’s treats proved it constantly. He really had a gift for making something beautiful (with anything he tried his hand at, mind you.)
I loved our messages about yeast, about different kinds of salt, about which recipes we were getting excited about and what kind of flours we use. Jacob chose to open a bagel shop that so clearly touched the lives of everyone that ever stepped in, and even those who just saw photos of it from afar. In strictly examining the way he baked: he really did a damn great job. I often told Jake that there are no notes for improvement, but, in fact, his are some of the best bagels I’ve had. The thing is, it was so much more than a perfectly baked circle of chewy bread. This was a space for people to experience a palpable love and kindness. Nobody embodied the spirit of sharing like Jake did, someone who truly lived the “all are welcome here” mindset.
Most of my photos and memories with Jake take place in various kitchens and tablescapes. Between test bakes, early pop-ups, sitting and laughing at the table: it’s a huge gift to have seen him shine in the beautiful spaces he created. Love you so so much sweet Jacob.
