Jenny Cookies Bake Shop at Alderwood Mall

It’s been quite a year.  Sometimes it’s difficult to fully comprehend all of it.  The only way I can best describe 2020 is a real life rollercoaster.  We started the year with huge goals and aspirations after wrapping 2019 up with a bow.  We had just finished a record year and we were ready to crush goals in 2020.  Ironically.. all those big goals and plans fell short in March. 

We made a quick decision in March to close Jenny Cookies Bake Shop, forcing us to cut our payroll more than 90%. The next couple of weeks were spent regrouping as we waited for more information.  Little by little we changed course.  We offered curbside pick up, doorstep deliveries, DIY kits, launched nationwide shipping and hosted a free, weekly live bake-along.  Even with the changes, every week was a gamble if we’d be able to remain in business.  I can’t count how many conversations we had debating closing the shop.   We’ve taken a hit this year in more ways than one.  

We continued moving forward through the summer and decided through our struggle we could still spread kindness and positivity in our community.  In July we launched a free 6-week Cookie Camp for both local families and nationwide.  Our Cookie Camp initiative was to spread kindness, hope, and remind everyone to look for the good in all situations.  We had campers all over the country take part in the program, giving back to their communities.  It was incredible! 

By September we were slowly able to bring back our team with creative ideas like a Cookie Cafeteria menu and School Portrait Day.  In October we offered a Bibbidi Bobbidi BOO theme day with character appearances from Enchanting Events and a Disney-inspired Halloween menu.  Two weeks later we offered a Trick or Treat Party with family costume photos on Halloween.  We have worked hard to keep our spirits up and not only spread good but be the good.   We truly stand by our slogan “Eat Cookies, Be Happy”.  We strive to create a memorable and joyful experience for each customer.   

In late October I took a leap of faith and signed a lease at Alderwood Mall for the holidays.  At this point in 2020, what more is there to lose?  Despite the unknowns and uncertainties, we are believing for better days ahead.  We’ve spent the last four weeks making preparations, implementing systems and growing our team from what was once cut down to 2 employees, now up to 27.  It’s really something.  I have the strongest team of hard-working, committed women that continue to impress me.  We’ve got a challenging road ahead but there’s no team I would rather do it with than the Cookie Squad.  

I hope you’ll join us this holiday season at Alderwood mall and continue to support our local Lake Stevens shop.  My “why” has never been about sales, which, on paper, makes me a terrible business owner.  My “why” is to inspire others to be the best versions of themselves, to choose kindness and always look for the good.  And..while you’re at it, eat cookies because you truly can’t be sad when you’re eating a cookie! 

We will open our new holiday pop-up store this Saturday, November 21st.  We have prepped and planned for a seamless and safe opening and I have no doubt you’ll be impressed when you visit the new store.  In fact, it’s the merriest cookie shop on earth.  We look forward to welcoming you in this holiday season.  

Thank you for continuing to support Jenny Cookies Bake Shop, both locally and nationally.  We have the best fans and customers who constantly encourage us not only by purchasing treats, cookbooks and cookie sweatshirts, but sharing our posts, leaving us comments and writing us messages.  I read every single one and I try to respond to as many as I can!  We are so grateful for you.  

I can’t wait to serve you a Cookie Cocoa or Cookie Coffee this Saturday!  We’ll be open 11am-8pm this Saturday and mall hours every day after.  For the first time ever, you’ll be able to get Jenny Cookies Bake Shop treats 7 days a week! If you’d like to skip the line or prefer to pick up at the door, we are offering a Grand Opening Celebration box.  Limited quantities available HERE.

xo, Jenny