Owner

Shortly after marrying in 2000, Hilda Staples and her husband moved to Frederick, MD, and instantly fell in love with the community. Staples' lifelong love of food and socializing inspired her to begin looking for a project that would complement these interests. These experiences would continue to influence her throughout her life, even as her career path initially took her in a different direction.

After graduating with a B.A. in political science from Marymount University in Arlington, VA, Staples began working as a congressional aide on Capitol Hill. Her experience led the way for lobbying on electricity deregulation issues - a heavily debated topic in the late 1990s. After leaving Capitol Hill, she began working as an account director at Ogilvy Public Relations.

After meeting Chef Bryan Voltaggio in 2009, the pair partnered to open VOLT restaurant in the historic Hauck Mansion in Frederick. It's a project that touches on many things important to her both personally and professionally. "Through VOLT, I wish everyone to experience the joys of food and family that I had growing up," she says. "By revitalizing the north side of Market Street I can give back to the city that inspired me to start a business."

Staples was hands-on with the project from the start - overseeing everything from investor relations to leading meetings with architects, general contractors, and being involved with city planning review. As co-owner, she continues to work on the daily financials, investor relations, and community relations for the restaurant. She is also the unofficial taster for the food and beverage menus.

Staples is also proud to contribute to the vitality and preservation of downtown Frederick through her roles in various local organizations. She is an active Rotarian of the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek and serves on the board of directors of Frederick Tourism Council, Weinberg Theater for the Arts, and the Maryland Ensemble Theater. She also serves on the advisory council of Gorilla magazine.

She lives in downtown Frederick with her twins, Beverly and Jules, and her husband, Jonathan.