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

Hi Kelsey, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I feel like the most important part of our success at Pineywoods Pie Company is delivering a product to our customers that is uniquely special and unlike anything they could purchase elsewhere. We hand roll and hand crimp every single pie crust. We hand juice and zest our key limes, every single detail is handmade down to the salted caramel and fresh whip cream. Along with the quality of our baked goods we have formed a tight-knit relationship with our community that has helped Pineywoods grow exponentially to bring us to where we are today.

What should our readers know about your business?
Baking has always been a passion of mine starting at a very young ago, making cookies with my Mamaw. We would watch countless cooking shows together and test out recipes. I started competing in junior livestock shows and entering cakes, cookies and breads. After winning all categories I knew this was something I should pursue! I started working in restaurants at age 15 and began to learn a lot about business through that experience. I made my first wedding cake at age 17! I ended up taking a small detour and earning a degree in mechanical engineering (instead of culinary) and worked in the oil and gas industry for several years. I always had owning a bakery as a long term goal in mind though! My husband and I ended up moving back to my home town in 2019 and taking orders for thanksgiving and Christmas pies. My business took off extremely quickly and we began renting our storefront location fall of 2020! We are continuing to grow thanks to my major support system: my community, friends,l and family!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend visits in Hemphill, I always have an itinerary set out! First, it’s breakfast and coffee at Sabeans on the square. Next we would have to checkout Lonesomepine Home and see when treasures Sam has as well. The local farmers market is up next and we aren’t leaving without some locally made breads and homegrown veggies! We’d definitely have lunch at Athen’s Cafe, our new and AMAZING Greek restaurant. Then our last stop of the day would have to be Tebo Creek Winery for a glass of their delicious Blanc Du Bois!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success as a business owner is dedicated to my Mamaw. Since i can remember, i have been in the kitchen baking with her. Mamaw was the one who helped me find my love for baking. From writing my own recipes, to taste testing, to opening my business, my Mamaw was there every step of the way. She has always been a major role model for me. I admire her selflessness and desire to help anyone even if it means going out of her way to do so. She has helped Pineywoods Pie Company from the ground up and pushed me and my business forward to success.

Instagram: pineywoods.pie.co

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pinewoodspieco/

Image Credits
Sam Melton

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