More than just a latte

This rainy October morning I walked in to Cake and Loaf bakery just as I have 100 times before though today was different, today I am different.  This past Tuesday my I had to say goodbye to my canine companion Toby who has been my best friend for the past 16yrs, my heart is broken.  

Yesterday was a blur as I was swallowed in the shock that follows great loss but today I knew I needed to take a step and venture out.  It was very scary because it meant I had to acknowledge the fact that my old boy wasn’t going to be with us for the drive, nor would he waiting for me at home.  But I did it, my son, 6mth old pup and I got in the truck and off we went.

I pulled into the parking spot and braced myself as I opened the door, knowing this was step two of our adventure – no Toby to say stay to as I took my son from his seat.  We headed in to Cake and Loaf for my usual latte + extras when Amanda (the wonderful store front manager) asked how I was - almost always, I say great – after all I’m about to be sipping on a delicious beverage, how could I be bad?  But today I was honest and admitted my pain and you know what, I am glad I did.  The love I felt was something I really needed, it made me feel human again.  

I spoiled my son with chocolate banana muffins, a candy corn brownie to share and I bought delicious homemade soup because I want comfort food but have no one to make it for me (the Mr cannot cook anything but meatloaf which I despise). I took in the warm shop vibe as I put the lid on my beautiful latte and I walked out the door.

As I drove home I couldn’t help but reflect on the impact small businesses truly have on people.  These places feel warm, inviting and safe.  There is no rush, you can take your time and those serving you will certainly take the time you need.  It isn’t something that can be experienced in a boxed store because even if the cashiers haven’t been weathered by the retail storm they most certainly are required to get that line moving as fast as humanly possible numbing the experience.  There is an exchange that happens when you shop small - more than just monetary – you make a connection vital to the human experience. 

I am no stranger to great loss but this one is hitting me incredibly hard.  Toby was more than just a pet; he was my support, listening ear, comfort and provider of unconditional love.  I feel truly blessed we had each other for as long as we did and will always be grateful for his presence in my life.

Feeling lost and disconnected is something I will be facing for a while but I know that I can count on small business love to help push forward and see the beauty in this world.

My latte was extra special today; it softened the sadness and warmed my soul. <3

Cake & Loaf Bakery

The patio of Cake & Loaf Dundurn on a sunny day

I discovered this AMAZING bakery winter of 2015 after a visit with my family to the Mustard Seed Co-op.  As we were about to check out I noticed this super cute chocolate bar stand and I’m a sucker

for chocolate so I had to try a chocolate Peanut Butter bar.  Waiting to eat it wasn’t an option; I opened it as soon as we got in to the car.   It was instant love – the BEST chocolate bar I had ever eaten.  I saved the tag so I could look up this wondrous place where these were created when we got home.

Jensen Cheddar, iced caramel latte and essential button ;)

After finding Cake & Loaf with the help of social media I knew I had to check out the shop on Dundurn in person – the upbeat vibe and beautiful pictures were more than enough to draw me in.  My first visit was wonderful!  The counter staff is phenomenal.  Helpful, patient and the barista skills outstanding!  My personal favourites are salted caramel lattes (iced or hot) and the Dundurn fog is perfection.

One of the things I love and appreciate most about this fantastic bakery is their commitment to the community through supporting local businesses as much as possible and fair trade when it’s not.  So many wonderful local treasures are used behind the scenes and are for sale on the shelves in store – places such as Teal’s meats, Parkermanns fine tea, Vintage and Detour coffees, From these Roots, and Jensen cheese.  There is nothing better than biting into a sweet treat or a satisfying savoury snack that you know was baked using the kindest ingredients, from scratch and with love!

Awesomely talented staff member Amanda

Another thing I think is wonderful is living wage for the employees!  That is so hard to find in the service industry and as a former customer service employee I know this all too well.  It’s uplifting to know that the employees are cared about and not just another number doing their time.

The new Cake and Loaf website is super user friendly and you can see what menu items are available each day making it easy to snag your favourite lunch or bread selection!  The new cake builder is also awesome and helpful for planning that special cake for celebrating anything and everything.  I have also had fantastic help via email with cupcakes and beverages for a party, ordering special cookies and placing same day holds over the phone.  

After being a regular of Cake and Loaf for over a year now I have tried many different things and not once have I been disappointed.  They are constantly creating new and exciting menu additions in both the sweet and savoury departments – Hello Mac and Cheese Pulled Pork pie which is nothing short of scrumptious and that Unicorn bar… SO good!  Our most purchased items are the take home soup jars in the fall and winter (nothing is more comforting than a big bowl of homemade soup), Jensen Cheddar bread (makes the best grilled cheese on the planet) and chocolate chip cookie packs!  My children LOVE the pizzas and cookies. 

Some of the market treats

I frequent the Dundurn shop but Cake and Loaf Market (located in the Hamilton Farmer's Market)– new this year!- is their sister shop and perfect companion with its own flavour!  Breakfast burritos are delicious and the waffles on a stick offered Friday’s and Saturday’s would steal anyone’s heart!

Every occasion in this house involves a little Cake and Loaf from birthdays, to holidays and teacher gifts they have something for everyone!  I am so happy to have discovered Cake and Loaf, I admire the drive of Josie and Nickey and enjoy interacting with the exceptional staff.  I look forward to watching the business grow in the years to come! 

Thanks for Reading!

PSA:  This Saturday September 17, 2016 Cake & Loaf is celebrating their 5th Anniversary!  Check out their facebook or Instagram for details :) 

Grab and go cakes & other sweets

Cake and Loaf Bakery's website: 

http://cakeandloaf.ca/

And facebook page: 

https://www.facebook.com/cakeandloaf/?fref=ts