A French Family Builds Two Beloved Pastry Shops After Moving to the United States
When Sabine and Stéphane Juskowiak left their careers in France to start a new life in the United States, they needed the right business to make the leap. Their immigration attorney suggested investing in a franchise, which would help with the E-2 visa process. They looked into spas, fitness studios and waffle shops, but nothing felt right — until Sabine found Le Macaron French Pastries online.
“I’ve always loved to cook, and my grandmother taught me so much when she worked in luxury hotels in Paris,” Sabine says. “Le Macaron’s products were top quality and gave us the chance to sell the best of France — its pastries.”
In 2016, the family opened their first shop in St. Augustine, Fla., running it entirely on their own — just Sabine, Stéphane, and their two children, Hugo and Oceane, who were teenagers at the time. “It was a great adventure,” Sabine says. In less than three months, they launched a second location nearby. The move wasn’t simply about expanding the business — it was also a necessary step to meet the investment and job creation requirements of their visas before their daughter’s 21st birthday, which was three years away.
Becoming a Local Favorite
What began as a whirlwind launch has since become a daily rhythm. Nine years later, Sabine’s mornings begin early. She visits both stores to check inventory, receive deliveries and make sure displays are set up properly. She oversees cleanliness, gives instructions, trains new employees and steps in wherever needed. Later in the day, she handles payroll, scheduling and special orders — from towering macaron displays for weddings to custom gift boxes for corporate events. She also works closely with the franchisor to plan seasonal flavors and promotions. “I like to be hands-on,” she says. “I talk with customers, share our story, and make sure every detail is just right.”
Both locations are now local favorites. The first shop offers a cozy, French-style lounge where customers linger over delicate macarons, creamy gelato, hand-painted chocolates, croissants, quiches, and coffee, tea or Champagne. The second is perfect for grabbing a treat and browsing Paris-themed souvenirs. The family still works together during holidays and busy seasons, and depending on the time of year, they employ 12–18 people. Customers come for the experience as much as the treats. The sweets are made daily in Sarasota, Fla., using proprietary recipes and natural, gluten-free ingredients.
“At about 80 calories each, they’re perfect for celebrations or an indulgent moment. Families love visiting Le Macaron because it’s special,” Sabine says. “You can enjoy something beautiful together and take a little taste of France home.” For Sabine, the biggest reward is clear — her family became U.S. citizens. “Le Macaron allowed us to move abroad and completely change our lives,” she says. “We’ve truly realized our American dream.”
Learn more about the Le Macaron French Pastries franchise.
