Meet Peter Jacob | Designer and Co-Owner of Cakabakery

We had the good fortune of connecting with Peter Jacob and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Peter, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Neither Jason or I have ever been the quitting type. There have been times when maybe we should have, but we’re kinda persistent and we tend to find the positives and solutions to problems together. Should you continue when money is short, staffing is tricky or you’re tired and feel desperate for help? You’re the only one who’ll know when it’s time to say, enough is enough. I’d say simple questions to use when deciding if it’s time to move on are, “what is causing the strain we’re experiencing” and “what are our reasons for continuing on”. The answers to these questions will tell you it it’s time to fold it up and pack it in. When the causes are seasonal/temporary and can be soled over time and the reason for continuing involve your values and care for others, you’ll know it’s time to hold on to what you’ve created and move forward.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Cakabakery has been a proud part of both the Grand Rapids and Holland business communities for several years. We’re a “from scratch” bakery, one of just a few in the region, and that makes what we do mean a lot to our customers. You want to know what you’re eating and where it comes from, right? We all do. When you shop and order ahead from Cakabakery you know you’re getting sweets made from real, local products by talented people who you trust. It’s not easy to make things that are wholesome and lovely every single day. But we do it because we know it’s the right way. The result is a community of customers who come back again and again. We love that.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In Grand Rapids I frequently take guest to Terra and to Little Bird. I know Jason and I have spent a lot of time at Terra talking business (and a little gossip) seated at the bar and chatting with the staff and Chef Clark. There are a lot of places we love to take friends for drinks like Post Off, right near Cakabakery, and to Meanwhile for a casual sip. The parks of GR are not to be missed and walks downtown usually end with a quiet drink at Cottage Bar or Pyramid Scheme. We have such terrific options all around us.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Yes! So many people have factored into the building of our business and our community. Our employees would be the first I’d mention. We’ve had many terrific people on staff over the 12 years we’ve been in business. Each has brought their own contributions, talents and has helped us grow in every way. We couldn’t do any of this without them. The wedding pro’s from planners to photographers to venue owners have been a fantastic system of connection and support. But most of all our friends and family have been our foundation. It’s their advice, love and constant uplift that has caused us to move ahead as small business owners.

Website: thecakabakery.com

Instagram: @thecakabakery

Facebook: @thecakabakery

Other: @cakabakerywest @cakabakeryon8th