25 Years and still having fun.

In the spring of 1989, I was 25 years old and trying to figure out what to do with my life.  I tried college and graduated from cooking school.  I had been working in Harbor Candy Shop for 12 years. A tiny space in the rear of the candy shop was available to rent. I loved to bake. It seemed like a great place to see if I could make a go of things.  I set about obtaining a loan for equipment. After being laughed out of seven banks, I realized that this endeavor  wasn't going to be that simple. Finally the old Maine National Bank provided a small loan to buy an oven and refrigerator and a few tools. We painted, patched the ceiling, and with the help of everyone I knew, we opened the doors on May 6, 1989.

Those early years in the shop down the alley seem magical now. When we ran out of food, we closed the doors to take a breather and restock the shelves. On hot summer days we closed for lunch and ran down to the beach for a quick dip. One year it was so hot that Megan (my wonderful niece who worked here for 19 years) and I came in at midnight on July 4th to make all of the cakes so they wouldn't melt with the heat of the morning oven. That first Thanksgiving, our profit literally went up in smoke, when we forgot to take the final batch of pies out of the oven- only to discover them hours later- black and smoldering.

In 2000, I was able to move the shop on  Main St. This was a game changer. The business grew exponentially and continues to increase every year. We added an espresso machine for the great Carpe Diem Coffee, provide quick serve lunch items, and added many items to our daily repertoire. We have now officially busted out of our kitchen!
This year, we are building a production and mail order kitchen in Wells. The new building will provide our delicious breads and desserts to restaurants and customers from away who visit our shop but need a fix when they are back home.

Hard work, dedication to excellence, commitment to quality have been the cornerstones of what Bread and Roses Bakery has become.  I have never skimped on ingredients or changed a recipe to cut costs. The amazing family of people who I am lucky enough to work with every day provide smiles and friendly service that make this more than just a bakery. They make Bread and Roses a great place- your great place to feel welcomed and nourished.

While much has changed since the early days, many things have remained the same. I have spent half of my life building and developing Bread and Roses Bakery. I am here every day making sure that the people who work here understand that every cookie, muffin, cup of coffee is your special treat. Our job is to make your experience here so great that you tell your friends about us.
Join us during the entire month of May as we celebrate our 25 years in business. We will have birthday cake every weekend and a chance to win a $25.00 gift card every day. We are giving away prizes every day. Stop by and celebrate with us.

Thank you for your support. I value your business and friendship, and I look forward to seeing what the next twenty five years will bring.
Mary