Connie Vlasis is rich in California history. In fact, catering extraordinaire, is a more accurate title for this lively innkeeper living in the lush rural landscape of Pauma Valley. A brief look through her scrapbooks and photo albums will quickly reveal the extent to which Vlasis is known in this part of the world. Although she has catered to many big name stars over the years, to Connie, every guest is a star. Ted is in real estate and found the castle for their new Bed and Breakfast. Ted loves to share his many stories of the many purchased properties "with no money down!"

Ted and Connie purchased in July 99. They have been married 49 years and are the perfect example of a working marriage. Connie and Ted pride themselves in "making people feel very welcome, pampered, special, and comfortable." Connie says "A sense of fun is vital."

Connie's culinary awards and achievements are many. Her recipe for her prima vera pasta sauce, "Ci' Bella" won first prize in the fine foods category of the National Association For The Specialty Food Trade, Inc. NASFT (a gourmet worldwide contest held annually in New York City).

Connie won first prize in the Chocolate Lovers Club for her chocolate layered cheese cake. The dessert was featured at the Villa Romana Trattoria restaurant in Laguna Beach, CA. Vlasis was featured on the TV Food Channel, Bon Appetit Magazine, and Who's Who. Connie has won numerous local recipe contests and has judged a few as well.

Connie has the distinct honor of being a direct ancestor of the Queen Mom of the house of Wales in England and a member of the Daughters of the Revolution. Connie's recipe for life is to live, laugh and love. And love has helped her raise three successful children, Tina Marie, Teddy II, and Denise, respectively, and five "angelic" grandchildren.

"Call for reservations, I'm sure you won't be disappointed" - as one article written on Connie about her B&B talents remarks, "she's a smiling blonde, motherly woman with a glamorous edge. One finds out quickly that time spent in the kitchen with Connie is delicious in every way."

Cupid's Castle has also recently been published in "O Woman", written by Bea Fogelman (p288 - 295) and be sure to look out for Connie's life story coming soon!