Hayley Sugg (aka, Mrs. Cheese) has always had a great interest in culinary arts, which started by getting a BS in journalism from the University of Montevallo and beginning a career in food writing. After several years working with brands like Cooking Light, Allrecipes, Eating Well, and Food Republic, Hayley decided the place she actually thrives most is in the kitchen amongst other people.

This pivot led to her attending Demuths Cookery School in Bath, England to earn a cookery certificate. The next few years were spent working as a line cook, front of house staff, and eventually a catering manager.

Through this exposure to various food and techniques, Hayley discovered cheese is her true passion. She worked during 2024 as a cheesemonger and loved every minute, but a genetic joint disorder prevented her from continuing down that (physically taxing) path. Instead, she decided to pursue cheese in a more academic sense through continuing her own education and teaching that knowledge in classes around the Pittsburgh area.

In 2024, Hayley received an Associate Certification from the Academy of Cheese and in 2025 earned the level two Member Certification. That same year, she also earned a Cheese Scholar designation from Cheese State University. Cheese is something you never stop learning about and Hayley is happy to take you all along on this journey!