Megan Palmer Rivera

Megan is a part of the 5th generation of her family to own and operate Palmer’s Market. She grew up working alongside her mother and grandfather at the store and always dreamed of becoming a chef. After high school, Megan attended The Culinary Institute of America, where she received her Culinary Arts Degree. She went on to study at the CIA’s St. Helena Campus, where she graduated as Class Valedictorian, adding a Baking and Pastry Arts Degree to her resume.

Megan always knew she wanted to carry on the family legacy while also following her passion, so after graduating she moved back to Connecticut and opened Palmer’s Bakery in 2007. In 2011, Megan took over as Executive Chef, overseeing the production kitchen at the market, and, the following year, launched Palmer’s Catering & Events. Both the Bakery & Catering company have gone on to win numerous awards and have added 30 additional positions to the company, something that Megan is very proud of.

In 2018, Megan took over as Palmer’s Managing Director and in 2023 she was named CEO. At the helm of a company that just celebrated 102 years in business, her main focus is on longevity and ensuring that Palmer’s will be around to support 100 more years of customers, employees, and local non-profits & charities.

When Megan is not at work, she can be found gardening, cooking, skiing, and spending time with her daughters, Rachael and Emma, and her husband, Will.