Meet Rachel Martindale | Owner of Q Bakehouse & Market

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

Hi Rachel, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I quit a career in corporate engineering because I found that I was much more passionate about pursuing creative endeavors. I’m much more of a creative person and I experience the most joy in this type of work.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I own a bakery and market in west Ann Arbor, Michigan that focuses on Asian-inspired pastries and prepared foods. The unique intersection of Asian and Western flavors and techniques is what we specialize in and sets us apart. We also donate 10% of profit to two local nonprofits which support those in need. Our goal of giving back is important to us and also sets us apart.

I was an engineer by degree but quit the corporate world to pursue baking. It was not an easy decision to make, but I found that pursuing my passion has made all the difference in my day-to-day joy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to my favorite ethnic foods in the area: Miny’s for Mexican, Haifa Falafel for Mediterranean, Lan City for Chinese, Encuentro Latino for pupusas, and then The Last Word for drinks!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I learned the most from Sweet Heather Anne, a local wedding bakery that taught me a bunch of skills related to cake building and decorating. To this day, I have a continued relationship with the team and they have been a great support and encouragement to me over the years.

Website: qannarbor.com

Instagram: instagram.com/qannarbor

Facebook: Facebook.com/qannarbor

Image Credits
Lily Merritt