Thea Werlinger, owner of Bakehouse 23, has a passion for baking that has been nurtured since childhood through her time at Gigi’s Cupcakes to today where she is crafting custom orders in her own storefront.
About Bakehouse 23
Located in Robert’s Alley in Downtown Fargo, Bakehouse 23 is a sweets shop specializing in custom orders. However, you can stop into the storefront for a decedent selection of macrons, cupcakes with rotating flavors, cookies, creme brulee, brownies, lemon bars, and more!
A Lifelong Love For Baking
“My passion for baking started with my grandma. Ever since I was four or five, she’d have me bake with her. We made everything from scratch, even the flour. That’s where I learned the basics of baking. I’ve always been creative and artistic, so for me, baking is about more than taste; it’s about creating something beautiful.”
Artistic Roots
“I’ve always had creative outlets. I was in the art club throughout school and focused on pottery and ceramics. I even took AP ceramics. At home, I worked on art projects in our unfinished basement, which became my blank canvas. That artistic mindset carries over into my baking— it’s like creating edible art.”
A Family Tradition
“Caramel rolls were the first thing I made with my grandma, and it became a tradition every summer on her farm in Hettinger, ND. On my own, I’d experiment with cakes and truffles, using whatever was in the pantry. Those early experiences shaped my love for baking.”
Learning At Gigi’s Cupcakes
“I started at Gigi’s Cupcakes as a sophomore in college, working part-time in customer service. About six months in, I began decorating and baking. A year later, I was decorating cakes full-time. After graduating, I became the assistant manager and did that for four years. I worked my way up and learned so much along the way.”
The Birth of Bakehouse 23
Opening Bakehouse 23 wasn’t without challenges. “I ran into issues with financing and permits. I thought I met the loan requirements, but they required 25% upfront. Thankfully, my family helped me find another way. The process took longer than expected, and I learned the importance of doing research and planning.”
Despite the hurdles, Werlinger built a business focused on quality and community. “Everything I make is handmade with quality ingredients. Nothing comes from store-bought cans or shortcuts.”
Custom Orders and Creativity
“Custom orders are my main focus. I love working on royal icing cookies, wedding cakes, and elaborate designs. I want to create three- or four-tier cakes with intricate details.”
Her weekly cupcake rotation keeps things fresh and seasonal. “There’s always a vanilla, a chocolate, a nutty flavor, and something fruity. For holidays, I create themed flavors like mint and red velvet for Christmas.”
The Vision for Bakehouse 23
“My dream is to be the go-to destination for weddings. I want brides to know they can come here for custom designs and detailed work. Each order is special to me; it’s not just another project. I care deeply about making my customers happy.”
Everything i make Is handmade with quality ingredients. Nothing comes from store-bought cans or shortcuts.”
Bakehouse 23 Custom Desserts
bakehouse23.com
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