Teresa Marcoaldi-Burkett and Shawn Burkett are the owners of Checkerboard Cheesecake. She has decorated cakes for twenty-seven years, and her expertise shows in each of her beautiful creations Though her experience as a decorator has given her an expansive repertoire of skills and techniques, Teresa continually comes up with new designs and teacher herself new techniques to use in her baking and decorating. Shawn assists in many areas of the business.

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When working with brides-to-be or any customers, Teresa uses her innovative style to design cakes and desserts that are suited specifically to fit each occasion and client. In addition, through her business Teresa seeks to honor God and show HIs love to each of her customers. A devout Christian, a large part of Teresa's ministry is practiced through her store.