The storefront of Polly Sparrow Bakery in Lebanon Public Square has been a long time coming, perhaps a lifetime in the making.
Five years ago, owner Kelly Chandler started Polly Sparrow as a side business making custom cakes while working full-time at Wildberry Catering.
“People have often asked me about opening a bakery. I never thought it would happen to me, but now it’s reality,” she said.
The bakery had a soft opening in late October 2023. But Chandler’s passion for spreading love through food goes back to his childhood.
Her first memory of cooking was in her grandparents’ kitchen, watching her grandfather make sauces on the stove. He was the inspiration for the name Polly Sparrow, as Polly was her nickname. She also recalled decorating hundreds of Christmas cookies with her mother.
“I always knew I would work in the food industry. I literally grew up in kitchens. Nothing moves and motivates me more than creating art with food and feeding people.” There was nothing that made me do it. That’s all I’ve ever done in my life,” she said. “It came naturally to me.”
The bakery is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. or until cookies, cupcakes, French and Italian pastries are sold out. She sold out of her products before noon. On Sundays, she offers two flavors of focaccia, including a vegan option.
“The best part of cooking for other people is seeing them happy and feeding them. Food to me is love. People come and see me. “Knowing that I am cared for and loved is the greatest gift I have been given,” she said. “I am so honored to be able to do business on the square and be surrounded by so many people and women business owners. I hope to bring something special to our community.”
One of Chandler’s most in-demand services is creating custom cakes, cupcakes, and desserts for special celebrations. One of her more difficult requests was from the Food Network.
“They contacted me to participate in a tryout for “Halloween Wars.” I was going to be filmed pulling it out,” she explained. “It was nerve-wracking because I had to make sure I was myself and stayed true to my art and craft. At the end of the day, it was incredible and the best experience ever.” It was one of those things that really made me grow and believe in myself.”
Polly Sparrow Bakery
position: 102 Public Square, Lebanon
owner: kelly chandler
time: Friday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
About the menu: Cookies, cupcakes, pastries and custom desserts
