A little over a year ago, you wouldn't have known anything about Aspen by Rachel Rakes. This unique little bakery, nestled in the heart of Wentworth, NC was once known to many as 309 Aspen but with hard work, determination and a whole lot of faith, it became Aspen by Rachel Rakes in 2019.
Rachel has always loved to bake. She grew up watching her grandparents host big family gatherings and knows the comfort that food, family and friendships bring to the table, but it wasn't until about 2 years ago that she decided to become an entrepreneur. You see, it was her daughters 10th birthday, a very special occasion, and her daughter wanted a unicorn cake and macarons to make the perfect celebration. Rachel called many places trying to find someone to make these special treats but couldn't find anyone within her price point. That's when she decided to give it a try herself.
She told us that in the beginning, her baking wasn't always the best looking but everyone loved the taste. Her friends encouraged her to start baking and selling these sweet treats. Rachel started her own Facebook page to start showing off her artwork. She began getting online orders and decided to partner with another baker that was preparing to open a store front in downtown Reidsville.
Rachel was working full time plus baking at night....she was exhausted to say the least. She soon (and thankfully) found out that 309 Aspen was for sale. She met with a few folks, made a plan and within a week had made her first deposit on the bakery. Aspen by Rachel Rakes became official on July 22, 2019!
"The first year of business is said to be the hardest, add in a pandemic and it's just madness," says Rachel. The community has stayed strong in supporting her through this pandemic and have allowed her to stay open while many others have been forced to close. Rachel stated, "I can never express how thankful I am for this community."
So what can you find at Aspen by Rachel Rakes? They have a full coffee bar including lattes, iced coffee, frappes, specialty tea's and smoothies. Their expesso, coffee beans and coffee supplies area all local to North Carolina as Rachel fully believes in supporting her state. If you are needing something for that sweet tooth, you can check out the assortment of pound cakes that are offered daily! At the top of that list of cakes would be some southern favorites, of course, Coca-Cola Cake and Sun Drop Cake.......yummy! You can also find a variety of pastries, cheesecake and macrons. They also do about any type of specialty cakes for birthdays, weddings, and parties.
As mentioned, Rachel tries to keep things local at her shop. She does so by also offering locally made jams, jellies, clothing, earrings etc. She has quite a nice variety.
Just recently, Aspen by Rachel Rakes has started sharing another North Carolina favorite... Boars Head deli sandwiches. They have 5 fresh options to choose from on their menu....these sandwiches are perfect for lunch on the go or you can sit down and enjoy inside the bakery.
So, if you are ever in the Wentworth area, be sure to stop in at Aspen by Rachel Rakes. They are open weekdays from 6:30am-5:30pm.