Chef Mary Jayne Wilson launched her pop-up bakery Thoughtful Baking Co. in 2021. Since then, she has been operating at local farmers markets. Now, after five years, Wilson is on the cusp of opening Thoughtful Baking Co.’s first brick-and-mortar space at 4418 Monroe Rd, Suite A.
“I have been looking for a space the whole time, but the farmers markets ended up being a wonderful community to be part of and a sustainable business model,” Wilson told What Now Charlotte.
Though Wilson has been operating successfully at the farmers markets, a brick-and-mortar location will allow her to expand the business model and avoid challenges such as inclement weather.
“We want to have other opportunities for the business to grow,” Wilson said. “It’s a small storefront, but it’s a perfect place for people to go pick up their stuff.”
The 3,500-square-foot second-generation space in Oakhurst will feature a kitchen, a small storefront area with a pick-up window and a back room that Wilson hopes to dedicate to teaching classes. The space will also give Wilson and the team space for additional product development. She plans to use the kitchen to expand their offerings to include more elevated and complex desserts.
Thoughtful Baking Co. is known for its farm-to-table and seasonal offerings, featuring items such as pot pies, quiches and pastries.
The space is undergoing cosmetic renovations, but Wilson hopes to open the storefront in May.
