Six years ago I was stressing over whether the oven would be working in time for our scheduled opening on July 5. Seems our electricians didn't understand the requirements of the oven and wired it wrong. I threw a fit and everything got fixed in time. Sales on our first day in business totalled a whopping $145.26!!
Over the course of four months in late spring 2006, the space was converted from a warehouse to a bakery. Things were bound to go wrong, and we were probably lucky most went right. Looking back at some old photos, I am reminded of how much has changed -- and how much as remained the same.
We still have those vintage display cases I bought on eBay for $1500. Plus the sinks, tables, the refrigerator, one of the freezers and many of the racks. The oven was replaced, we have a big new 60-quart mixer, and are on our third Kitchen Aid 5-quart mixer. The used refrigerated display cooler in the photo was replaced by another used refrigerated display.
Back in July 2006, the space was cooled (sort of) by a wall A/C unit and we rolled shortbread cookies out by hand with a rolling pin.
We now have central air conditioning, a dough sheeter and a walk-in freezer.
The space to the left of the bakery (red door) is still Brushstrokes by Ann Foster, but the space to the right morphed from an art studio to a party room, to a bakeware consignment shop.
Three of us posing with Barney Fife are still at the bakery (although Suzanne now manages Mary's Cupboard). I think Suzanne and Pat look about the same, but I have many more gray hairs.
So come celebrate with us on Art Night July 5. We'll have birthday cake and (weather permitting) Debbie Bond and Rick Asherson (and band) will be performing in the Alley.
Plus the Mary's Cupboard will be welcoming Finland with a contest.
It'll be just like old times. Only better.
Awesome post! My aunt owns a bakery and she was in complete panic mode when she first opened her bakery. Business is booming now with the new additions of her lovely candy displays. Best wishes with continued success of your business!
Posted by: D Lew | April 26, 2013 at 09:28 AM