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UNITY - Dec. 17 was an exciting day in Unity as the Ma and Me Bakery opened its doors. The last time Unity had a bakery in the business community was under the ownership of Kurt and Bev Larsen in 1997, 24 years ago.

Speaking to the Press-Herald/SASKTODAY.ca, new bakery owner, Jen Belcher says, “I have known for a long while that baking is my passion. This business has been in the works for a while. I had just needed to ensure I had all my ducks in a row before proceeding with purchasing property, developing it and now opening this new bakery in town.”

Many responded with excited and positive comments once the announcement of Unity’s newest business was included on social media. Opening day reaffirmed the community’s anticipation, as Belcher was kept busy throughout the day serving customers. Shoppers arrived as soon as the doors opened at 6 a.m. and a steady stream of people came through the doors throughout the day to see what Unity’s newest business had to offer

One attendee on opening day said, “What a big treat for Unity. It is so impressive to see young people investing in our business community, and with such enthusiasm, too. Today was exciting to see the transformation of the former quilting shop into Unity’s newest business, and what a great time of year for this to happen.”

Attendees marvelled at the new look as well as what was being offered by the new business.

Belcher says the community has been nothing short of amazing and she has felt the care and support from everyone towards new businesses. She says she feels everyone is just as excited as she is and the enthusiasm helped energize her through the whole process.

Two employees are working at the location and need for additional staff will be assessed, as well as adding students to cover the evening shifts. Belcher said it will take some time to determine what hours will work for her and her customers.

Belcher was happy to surprise everyone on grand opening day, Dec. 17 with the retro-look diner interior on one side of the business for those that want to sit in and enjoy coffee and goodies. The remainder of Ma and Me Bakery has shelves full of fresh, from scratch, baked goods as well as a front counter showcase for items that could be purchased in singles or other sizes.

The evolution of this newest business in Unity began with the possession date, Nov. 1, of the building they are located in. Belcher and her family worked on the building every single day until opening, and with her experience as a contractor she knew how to make her vision come to reality .

“I am super excited to bring a bakery back to Unity. There is just something about homemade treats and baked goods that make a person feel all warm and cozy. The excitement from the town has been incredible and I wanted to make sure I built a place where everyone feels welcome and maybe to take a trip back in time,” says Belcher.

Belcher said in addition to popular and regular baked goods she will offer gluten-free products, peanut-free items and assures customers the list will grow with time once it is determined what people are looking for. Offering these products ensures people with specific dietary needs have somewhere they can get baked goods. She says she remains open to making anything anyone wants to request.

Belcher moved to Unity seven years ago to be with her husband Val. Their 15-year-old son, Jayce, will be helping at the bakery after school.

“Unity is our home and we love it here, so we are all excited to bring something new to everyone in town.”