![](https://westseattleblog.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_1573-e1351976945463.jpg)
(WSB photo: Donna Lawson during her shop’s 1st-anniversary party in 2012)
One of West Seattle’s most beloved bakers has announced she will be shutting down her shop. Here’s what Stuffed Cakes proprietor Donna Lawson posted online today:
It’s hard for me to write this, but the time has come for me to make a big ol’ change in my life. When I started Stuffed Cakes in 2010, I was excited to start sharing my love of making deliciously creative cakes with more than just my friends and family. My first year of business was a steep learning curve, but I was able to take my tiny investment, build my customer base and open my first shop a year later – a lifelong dream come true.
I opened my shop a couple of blocks from my house, MY neighborhood, MY shop; a way to really be part of this wonderful West Seattle community I call home. The neighbors that pop in to my shop quickly became regulars that became friends I look forward to see annually, monthly, weekly, or sometimes even more often. I really couldn’t ask for better customers! We’ve laughed together, cried together, shared hugs, stories, and mostly just our lives while nibbling on tasty treats. I’ve watched babies grow into fantastic big kids, and teens grow up to be amazing young adults. I’ve made engagement cakes, wedding cakes, baby shower cakes, baby’s 1st birthday smash cakes, and birthday cakes from then on for families. We’ve made thousands of custom cupcakes for businesses like Google and Amazon, and even more for anyone walking in for that special treat. I have made cakes on national television and even for celebrities as big as Billy Joel! We’ve won award after award, and stood our ground against some of the best pastry chefs in town. We’ve been part of the best days of your life, and even part of your saddest times – and I’m beyond honored that you have counted on us and trusted us to be part of your big moments. I’ve caught myself tear up more than once, realizing I created exactly what I dreamt of – that little neighborhood shop that brings joy to others lives and creates memories that might even last a lifetime.
It’s time I take Stuffed Cakes in a different direction. Some of you know (and most of you don’t) that I suffer from Fibromyalgia and Arthritis – both of which do not do well with long days and body-taxing work. Unfortunately, Seattle is making it harder and harder for micro businesses to flourish. Business owners either end up taking on more and more work, or we have to expand into a kind of business model we don’t want. I need to re-prioritize: more time with family and friends; and most-importantly, more time taking care of my physical self.
What does this mean for Stuffed Cakes? Well, the honest answer is I’m not entirely sure. I know I want to teach and share my art with you. I will be growing my online presence – with videos, more photos on a regular basis and hopefully even in-person classes. Who knows, maybe I’ll even write a book!
I’ve gone round and round, over all of my options, and I’ve decided it’s time to close my shop. This has been an incredibly hard decision to make – one I have not taken lightly. I have never been for lack of customers and for that I am truly grateful!
July 28th, 2018 will be Stuffed Cakes Grand Closing party! We had the MOST amazing, supportive Grand Opening in the fall of 2011, and now it’s time to go out with a BANG!, Mostly I just want to have a great time with all of you and give back to my community. More info to come…
So, if you need a cake, get your order in! The last date we’re taking custom orders for is Saturday, July 21st so we can focus on walk-in customers and prepare for our party on July 28th. Starting today there will be a $150 minimum order with a preference given to more elaborate cakes. Most of June is booking up quickly, we’ll be closed the week of 4th of July, and we’re only taking orders for Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from now on so don’t wait to place your order.
If you know anyone looking to buy a turn-key bakery/catering spot, please have them email bakeryforsale98126@gmail.com for more information.
Thank you EVERYONE!
I LOVE YOU!
(Thanks to Sandy for the tip.)
| 24 COMMENTS