There are no pearly gates at this Heaven but it sure does feel like a transcended place of pure goodness.
Heaven is a bakery in Bovina Center, New York. The physical location has closed but still deserves recognition, as it left a positive imprint on me and other locals who stopped by on weekends for fresh baked goods and coffee or tea.
The owners, Taylor and Joshua, created a space where people felt at home. There were always candles lit and steaming hot baked goods being served straight from the oven. Customers could choose their own one-of-a-kind vintage tea cup and saucer which made it feel like having a heartwarming drink at granny’s. The long community table in the main room was the place to be, where friends, business professionals and families exchanged stories and dreams.
The community feel extended beyond the atmosphere to their food and products. Most of Heaven’s ingredients were bought local. Taylor and Joshua support farms in the Catskills and Heaven always had a fresh supply of organic greens and cheese on hand. On the shelves were products for sell by nearby companies who made honey, maple syrup, jams and lotions.
What bakeries, coffee and tea companies can learn from Heaven:
* Create a community feel (i.e. long tables that people share)
* Make a space where people feel comfortable working & socializing (i.e. bright colors, open space, well lit)
* Have wood chairs and tables instead of iron, which is cold and uninviting
* Buy local ingredients
* Sell local products
* Serve organic food
* Use glass cups and plates for customers who eat-in
* Treat customers like they are family
* Maintain a homey atmosphere
Here is Taylor in front of a tasty variety of treats. She attended the Culinary Institute of America and has mastered the art of making delicious pies, brownies, croissants, cookies, cupcakes, quiches and more!
Heaven will be open one last time this Sunday morning in celebration of the 4th of July. Stop by and say “Hi” to Taylor, who is 7.5 months pregnant! (Can you imagine how beautiful her baby is going to be?!) If you can’t make it to Bovina Center, stay tuned for Heaven’s on-line store. Taylor says, “I plan on continuing with Heaven in some form in the future – wholesale, online sales, etc.” Visit www.heavenonmainstreet.com for updates.
I’m sure whatever Taylor and Joshua decide to do with their company, they will do it with all of their heart!
Thank you, I’ve only been to Heaven a couple of times…But I was always amazed at what you brought to the little town of Bovina! It really was a little slice of Heaven!! All the best to you and your family:)
Sincerely,
Christina DeAraujo
Thank you, Taylor, for always making me feel so welcome.
I loved coming at Heaven and it became a little home away from home, I still haven’t found a place back here in Copenhagen that even come close to the beautiful, warm and welcoming space you and Joshua created.
I wish you, Joshua and the little one it way all the best
Love,
sophía lucía
Aaah, thanks for the details on what is up with Heaven. Last time I was in town it looked and felt closed. Congrats to Taylor and Joshua on having birthed Heaven on Main Street. The next birth will surely be amazing!
Sincerely,
Amy Celento
Thanks for a beautiful article and all the nice comments!
I had so much fun with Heaven. Look out for more summer openings – the 4th was great! And please keep in touch through our website!
xo
I miss Heaven and the gang as much as I miss living at Lynnskill. Taylor and her cool hubby were always great and made the weekends more amazing every day we were there. Anthony and I miss you all, and think of you often.
Best in the future!!
Astrid
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What a fantastic blog post! Thank you for sharing it on your blog.