A Humble Beginning
In the heart of Seneca County, Ohio, nestled in the town of Republic, is a beloved Ohio stop for sweet treats, customized cakes, and even farm-fresh chicken and duck eggs sourced locally. In addition to sweet delights, the shop features charming boutique items from other small businesses, making it a one-stop destination for thoughtful gifts, delicious treats, and locally crafted goods.
Lisa’s journey into the world of baking wasn’t paved with formal culinary training or generational recipes. Instead, it began with a simple desire: to stay home with her children. Armed with determination, she enrolled in baking classes at local craft shops and immersed herself in episodes of “The Great British Bake Off,” learning the nuances of baking from scratch. Her initial foray into baking was marked by endearing missteps—like the time she intended to purchase a cake pan but returned home with a cookie sheet instead.
From these modest beginnings in 1999, Lisa’s passion blossomed. What started as baking 2-3 cakes a week alongside a babysitting business evolved into a full-time endeavor. Today, during peak seasons, she crafts over 18 cakes daily and produces up to 500 dozen cut-out cookies during the holidays.
Building a Community, One Cookie at a Time
Lisa’s commitment to her community is as rich as her buttercream frosting. In 2020, she expanded her home-based business into a storefront, investing $25,000 to create a space that not only offers delectable treats but also showcases products from local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Handshoe Cakes & Cookies isn’t just a bakery; it’s a community hub. Lisa frequently participates in local events and is always a supportive donor when asked to give back. Her generosity and community involvement have solidified her reputation as a beloved local entrepreneur.
Cookies from Home: A Taste of Comfort for Troops Abroad
Perhaps one of Lisa’s most heartfelt initiatives is “Project Cookies from Home.” What began as a small gesture transformed into a monumental effort to provide deployed U.S. military personnel with a taste of home. After accidentally ordering 500 shipping boxes instead of 25, Lisa embraced the challenge, sending over 70,000 cookies to service members worldwide. People can share any APO, FPO or DPO overseas addresses with Lisa and Handshoe Cakes & Cookies will send cookies to the loved one’s whole unit!
Each $25 box, sponsored by generous donors, is filled with homemade cookies and accompanied by letters of encouragement or colorful drawings from the community. This initiative not only boosts the morale of our troops but also fosters a sense of unity and gratitude within Seneca County.
Support Local, Taste the Love
At Handshoe Cakes & Cookies, customization is key. Lisa prides herself on crafting confections tailored to her clients’ visions. Whether it’s a corporate event, a family celebration, or a unique business promotion, she collaborates closely with customers to bring their ideas to life. Her offerings include gluten-free, sugar-free, and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can indulge in her delightful creations.
In an era where mass-produced goods dominate, Handshoe Cakes & Cookies stands as a beacon of authenticity and community spirit. Lisa’s unwavering dedication, from her humble beginnings to her expansive community outreach, exemplifies the profound impact of local businesses.
So, the next time you’re craving a sweet treat or seeking the perfect cake for a special occasion, take a visit to Handshoe Cakes & Cookies at 6085 E State Route 18, Republic, OH. Experience firsthand the warmth, love, and delectable flavors that have made Lisa Handshoe a cherished figure in Seneca County.
For more information or to place an order, visit https://handshoecakesandcookies.com, call 419-585-7005, or visit their Facebook page here.
