Prologue: Once Upon a Time...
…a shared dream brought two creators together. When Cassandra and Alissa first connected, they quickly discovered a mutual love for culinary tradition and the stories carried through food. For both, time spent in the kitchen became a way to honor the family and community that shaped their lives, recipes, and sense of home.
Today, Once Upon a Time Bakery is a tribute to those roots while embracing the future. Blending their unique histories and inspirations, they create modern takes on nostalgic flavors, from traditional Danish Kringles and artisan pies to every pastry in between. Each dessert is crafted with care, intention, and a touch of storytelling.
More than anything, their passion lies in creating community wherever their treats are shared. After all, home is not defined by four walls; it is found around the tables where laughter lingers, memories are made, and people come together. Through thoughtful small-batch baking, Cassandra and Alissa hope to help others celebrate life’s sweetest moments, one chapter at a time.
Meet the "Storytellers"
Alissa - "The Author"
Founder & Lead Baker
"I’ve always believed that the best stories are told over a cup of coffee and something sweet. Originally from the Midwest, I grew up with the tradition of family recipes, like our signature cinnamon rolls, that bring people together. As a co-founder of Once Upon a Time Bakery, my goal is to blend that sense of nostalgia with a fresh, modern perspective. While I’m often found refining our brand strategy or dreaming up the next big vision for the shop, my heart is in the community we’re building here, one scratch-made pastry at a time."
Cassandra - "The Illustrator"
Co-Founder, Baker, Decorator
"Cassandra Marzette is the co-founder of Once Upon a Time Bakery, where tradition, storytelling, and heart come together in every bake. She learned to bake alongside her mother, and her approach is shaped by Yugoslavian family recipes, the Southern influences of her African American heritage, and her roots in Racine, WI (famous for its Danish Kringles). As a writer and multidisciplinary artist, she dreams of creating a storybook-themed bakery that offers sweet, meaningful moments and reminds people that their stories matter."
Supporting Characters
Our Family & Friends
Every great tale relies on an incredible ensemble, and you are the true heart of Once Upon a Time Bakery. From impromptu late nights to creating the beautiful logo, you are all the vibrant community that shows up rain or shine, shares our pastries and baked goods with your loved ones, and fills our days with warmth, laughter, and encouragement. While our cast of supporters is far too vast to list name by name, please know that every single one of you breathes life into our dream. We truly couldn't write this story without you, so thank you! for being the magic on every single page.