By Hailey Mayewski

What’s your favorite holiday tradition? Maybe it’s decorating the Christmas tree with your family or singing along to festive tunes while baking with your kids. No matter what it is, these cherished moments often revolve around family. For the Lanzerotti family, their traditions are no different—but with a “sweet” twist.

The day starts early at 5 a.m., Butch, Jerry, and their team are already awake, preparing for their busiest day of the year. At 6 a.m., the aroma of fresh bagels, courtesy of Butch, fills the air as sleepy greetings are exchanged and everyone gathers to get to work.

The store staff begins the day by prepping the bakery for the rush ahead—stocking shelves, setting up stanchions, and organizing orders. Meanwhile, head baker Sal and his wife, Alix, dive into the day’s baking. While the cake decorators begin assembling their creations.

 Before they know it, the clock strikes 7 a.m., and the doors open to a wave of eager customers.

The bakery hums with activity as the Lanzerottis and their team work tirelessly to keep up with the demand. While the back of the shop may appear chaotic to outsiders, the family runs their operation like a well-oiled machine.

Around noon, Butch takes a break from the hustle and bustle to grab some fresh semolina bread, making sandwiches for the entire crew. Everyone takes a quick, well-earned lunch before diving back into the holiday rush.

The day is a blend of hard work and family. While many envision Christmas as a peaceful time spent around the tree, the Lanzerottis wouldn’t have it any other way. For them, this is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season—working side by side with the people they love most.