Guilty Bakery joined the Bank's list of business clients during the pandemic as they were recommended through word of mouth. From PPP loans to a lasting relationship, Amy Cotter and Krista Malayter, co-owners of the company have felt supported through their partnership with South Shore Bank and were excited to share with us about how we are making a difference in their operation.
How and when did you start Guilty Bakery?
We started Guilty Bakery back in December of 2012, not officially opening the doors until March of 2013. We had previously worked together at a catering company. Amy was the Executive Pastry Chef and had hired Krista, Amy then went out on maternity leave, found a spot for Guilty and approached Krista to see if she was interested in doing this with her. She was all in, and we are still here 11 years later!
When did your passion for baking come into fruition?
Amy: I had been baking my whole life, mainly with my mom. When it came time to go to school for an actual career, my mom said, “Why not try baking?” I had no idea that could be someone's career, but I went for it. I went to Johnson and Wales, studied 2 years of baking and pastry and then finished with my bachelor's degree in marketing.
Krista: I began baking later in life. I graduated from Wagner College with an English degree and then decided on a career change later on. I went to a 9-month program in Boston and got a baking degree and have been loving it ever since.
Where are you currently located?
We currently have our main shop here in Hanover. This is where all the baking happens as well. We have a full storefront as well as a room for our wedding tastings, meetings and etc. All our custom orders come out of this location, and you can see us working in the back when you come in as well! We have been dreaming of this location and had been looking for a space to call ours for over 4 years. It has been the best decision we have made and are thrilled to call this our home. We do have another small storefront in Mashpee Commons on the Cape. It's a smaller version of what we have here, with the focus on mini pastries and pop in and grab some treats kind of things.
How did you decide to partner with South Shore Bank?
We were looking for a change. As always, it just continued to be on the list of things to do, and as a small business, this list is constantly growing! Once the pandemic hit and our needs changed as a business, we knew we needed more. We have friends that are also business owners and they all highly recommended South Shore Bank, so we went for it and the process was great. We truly feel valued and welcomed.
What is an example of a time South Shore Bank has delivered above and
beyond banking for your business?
Post-pandemic, we were starting to grow, and we talked about our goals with the Bank. They gave us suggestions on how to maximize our financial growth without a lot of personal sacrifice - which no other bank had done. Being a business owner is risky, and it's definitely a learn as you go profession. Having the right people giving you guidance is extremely important, and we feel that with South Shore Bank.
What is the solution South Shore Bank provides for your business?
Not only did they pull us through the pandemic, they also have remained accessible for all of our needs and concerns after that.
Why would you recommend South Shore Bank to other businesses who are
evaluating their banking needs?
South Shore Bank has been easy to talk to about any needs we have. We trust that they have the growth of our business in mind. They can help guide you through any financial question you have. Their partnership allows us to focus on what we do as we can rest assured, they have our best interest in mind.