Buddy Valastro’s kids aren’t so little anymore!
Buddy Valastro’s two eldest children, Sofia, 23, and Buddy Jr., 22, are now stepping into more grown-up roles.
Between the two, they are balancing college, recent graduation, and work at their father’s famous bakery.
In a Friday, September 26, interview with PEOPLE, both children opened up about their famous dad and their current life.
Sofia, a University of Delaware graduate, has returned home to New Jersey to help out full-time at Carlo’s Bakery.
Buddy Jr. is currently a student at Syracuse University, part of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, but helps out at the bakery during breaks.
Their father, Buddy Valastro Sr., 48, also father to Marco, 18, and Carlo, 14 (with wife Lisa Valastro), has for years built a business that is a family affair.
It’s a Family Business
Working alongside their father has enabled both Sofia and Buddy Jr. to observe his work ethic firsthand.
Sofia said watching him pour passion into “every aspect” of the business, still being “the first one in the office, the last to leave,” and not shying away from weekends, has inspired her.
Buddy Jr. added that seeing what his father has created motivates him to work harder and appreciate the opportunity to learn directly from him.
The children also described how their father shifts between the roles of boss and dad.
In the bakery, Buddy Sr. is “all business, focused, busy, and detail-oriented,” setting high standards and leading by example.
But at home, the tone changes: joking, giving advice, cheering them on, and making sure the family is supported.
Buddy’s Children Express What They Learned From Their Father
When asked about the most valuable lessons they’ve learned, both Sofia and Buddy Jr. emphasize family and persistence.
Sofia said her father’s biggest lessons are “family always comes first, and to never give up,” pointing out that even when things are hectic, he shows them by example that passion and perseverance are essential.
Buddy Jr. echoed that “family is the heart of everything” and that, despite everything Buddy Valastro has accomplished, he never forgets to keep his family at the center.
For the Valastros, family is incredibly important as each member of the family often shares moments on social media with each other.
Buddy, as well as his wife Lisa, shared a sweet post on Wednesday, September 24, celebrating their daughter.
“Happy National Daughter day! No matter how old you get, you’ll always be my little girl and forever best friend!” Lisa wrote.
