All About Fenelon's Newest Place for Delicious Treats: Porch Light Bakery

1. How long have you owned your business?

Porch Light Bakery is owned by my parents, Andrea & Robert, my brother, Anton and myself. We took pandemic lemons and made pandemic lemon tarts. By that I mean our family decided to get together after living apart for many years to build something we had always day-dreamed about. Back to basics. Food, family and butter tarts (of course). After moving to Fenelon Falls from Toronto in 2020 we immediately looked to connect with the community. Our search brought us to the Fenelon Falls Farmers Market in the summer of 2021, where we sold our baked goods under Happy Earth Farm (quiches, scones, butter tarts and so much more). We had such a great momentum and didn't want to slow down, so we looked for a retail space in town and are set to open this February 9th.

2. What was the inspiration to start your business?

Growing up in a family of bakers and cooks it’s hard not to put food at the center of everything. It was our way of coming together and celebrating our diversity, togetherness and love for the vibrant flavors of our many heritages. We would be so excited to have friends and family over for a meal, because cooking and baking for someone was how we showed our love and appreciation for them. To be able to bring that same element of inclusivity, togetherness and love for food to our community was, for a long time, just a dreamy idea.

3. What is your favourite part of being a small business owner?

To be able to build a concept that has been in the works for years is so rewarding. We’re getting to rediscover our creativity and potential after a pandemic hiatus, and it's so refreshing to get back into it. I love that the businesses here work together, both in support of each other and for the benefit of the town, to make sure Fenelon Falls thrives for everyone.

4. What do you wish people knew about your business?

We love what we do. And we love that all the businesses around us love what they do! We're here to amplify the positivity this community revolves around.

5. Who is your greatest supporter?

There are too many to count. Our family and friends have been our biggest cheerleaders. It’s not easy opening a business amidst a national pandemic, but they seemed to convince us that it was doable! Beyond that, we instantly felt the support of the community and our returning customers. Seeing our regulars on Fridays and Saturdays at the farmers market was my favorite part of the experience. Getting to know the community members and learning about our new town through their experiences has been invaluable.

6. What are you most proud of about your business?

Despite the ups and downs presented through this process we have held true to our core beliefs and values. Porch Light Bakery will be a place for everyone.

7. Describe yourself or your business in one or two words?

Hungry.