Sweet success for Stratford shop that serves cookie fans all over the country
IT was time to get the celebration cake out for a confectionery company in Stratford after they picked up a major business award.
The Cookie Cottage in Shrieves Walk was named Dessert Parlour of the Year in the Midlands Food Drink and Hospitality awards held in Birmingham last Monday (17th June).
Delighted business partners Hannah Odell and Gary Meakin told the Herald: “We were against some really big names across Birmingham, Nottingham, Leicester, so when they announced The Cookie Cottage we were just absolutely thrilled, and it was amazing how many people recognised our brand. It feels really surreal, and very special.”
The pair have been firm friends since working at Audi in Stratford for 15 years, which is where the idea for the business was first hatched.
Mum-of-two Hannah explained: “We always knew we wanted to do something together and then lockdown came about. I had to make the decision whether I would go back to my job or leave and start a cookie shop with Gary…and I haven’t looked back since.”
Entering the shop is like stepping into a Hansel and Gretel fairy tale. There’s a huge magical tree, technicolor decorations and of course an abundance of cookie-themed confection, such as cookie dough pots and pie-like creations, as well as ice cream in summer and hot chocolate in winter.
There are around 30 cookie flavours to choose from, from the traditional chocolate and caramel to more innovative additions such as Biscoff and Kinder; the branded biscuits are mushed up or used as chunky decoration.
As well as the shop, there is a bakery in Alcester where goods are made. It’s also where the company’s delivery service is based, serving Cookie Cottage fans all over the country.
Summing up what makes The Cookie Cottage so special, Hannah said: “We’re Stratford people, and the business was born here, with me baking cookies throughout lockdown in my kitchen at home.
“I became really passionate about it, and started the wholesale side of business. The we decided it could be more than a delivery service. With the magical tree you walk into an experience at the shop.”
She continued: “We knew how special it could be and where we wanted to take it. We had a vision in our head and it's been amazing to see our dreams coming true.”
The couple are not resting on their magical tree laurels though. Gary explained: “We work hard and stay fresh with flavours that people want.
“We keep on top of trends and social media is a big thing for us. We share videos of cookies being made at our Alcester bakery on TikTok. And customers share images on Instagram.”
Although he couldn’t make a big reveal yet, Gary added: “The Cookie Cottage has some really exciting news, we’re ready to grow.”
