The Story of Little Bear Bake Shop

Hi! I’m Chelsea. I’ve loved baking since I was little, but I’ve developed a bit of an obsession since the pandemic started and I graduated from college. I’m at a weird, transitional time of life, as we all are to some extent right now. But the pandemic has coincided with me finishing one life phase and vexing over what to do with the next one.
I decided to take a gap year before moving on to graduate school, and I want to take this year to do things I enjoy, as well as to reflect and plan for whatever is next. Both baking and eating these sweet treats has been a therapeutic escape for me during these insane and often disheartening times.
I think of little things, like baking and hanging out with my pups, as helpful little joys to balance out the hard, deeper things we have going on. That’s part of why I’m naming my bake shop after my dog. Her name is Eleanor, but I sometimes call her “Little Bear.” She’s definitely not little, but she does look a bit like a bear. Her… round figure and obsessive love of food (particularly peanut butter) make her a pretty apt representative for my baking.
Since I am currently school-less and job-less, and since this has been such a joy for me, I’ve decided to start selling my baked goods and sharing the joy with you all. Bring cookies to your (hopefully responsible and vaccinated) gatherings! Take some cobbler to your friend who is going through a hard time. Order a customized cake for a loved one’s birthday. When you’re feeling overwhelmed with… everything, get yourself a whole-ass pie, and don’t apologize to anyone for it. It’s important to feel all of your feelings, and I think a sweet treat can be a healthy comfort and encouragement as you do so. We aren’t avoiding or numbing here, we are indulging in some sweet, rich, delicious self-care. So, join me in the madness. I don’t think you’ll regret it!