In the heart of Detroit’s Westside, a bakery known as Crummy’s Sweets and Treats is redefining the joy of desserts. The story of this charming bakery begins with Charlita Knox, whose affection for baking traces back to her childhood, spent in the warmth of her grandmother’s kitchen. The nickname ‘Crummy’, lovingly given by her grandmother, now adorns her family business, symbolizing a legacy of familial love and culinary excellence.
Charlita, alongside her husband Mark, ventured into the world of entrepreneurship in 2019. Their journey began with pop-up shops around Detroit, quickly capturing the hearts of locals with their delightful confections. However, the unforeseen challenges of COVID-19 led the couple to a crossroads.
"In 2019, our bakery business was flourishing. We were on the verge of a significant breakthrough." The couple had signed a lease for a physical bakery space, but the pandemic's impact was immediate and devastating. "The pandemic hit, and we lost our space," Mark explained. "It was a moment of truth for us, and we had to pivot quickly to keep our dream alive."
Demonstrating remarkable resilience, Mark came up with an innovative solution. “I realized that Detroit lacked a dedicated cake supply store,” he said. “So, to sustain our business and bring in some income, we decided to start selling cake boxes and boards.” This strategic shift not only kept their business afloat during these challenging times but also filled a gap in the market, providing a much-needed service to the local baking community.
Their decision to open a cake supply store marked a pivotal moment in their journey. While it was a departure from their original plan, it showcased their adaptability and commitment to their dream. Through this initiative, they continued to serve the Detroit community, building a foundation for the future resurrection of their bakery.
December 2021 marked a milestone with the opening of their bakery and cake supply store at 7114 W Seven Mile Rd, Detroit. This achievement was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to the couple’s enduring spirit and the support they received from ProsperUs Detroit. Their relationship with ProsperUs started with our Entrepreneurship Training Program, laying the foundation for their business acumen. When Crummy’s faced supply chain challenges, ProsperUs stepped in, offering crucial support that underscored the organization’s commitment to nurturing local businesses.
The impact of Crummy’s Sweets and Treats extends beyond the realm of baking. Charlita and Mark’s vision encompasses a community-oriented approach, focusing on collaborations with fellow entrepreneurs and educational initiatives. Their work with Detroit public schools is particularly noteworthy. Through their innovative programs, they open doors for youth, teaching them not just the art of baking and decoration, but also imparting valuable lessons in retail management. Their internship program has already seen success, with young individuals gaining skills that will serve them for life.
Mark and Charlita believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. Their bakery is more than a destination for sweet treats; it is a hub for collaboration and learning. Whether it’s redirecting orders to fellow entrepreneurs or nurturing young talent, their efforts are a beacon of hope and solidarity.
As Crummy’s Sweets and Treats continues to grow, so does its influence and commitment to the community. The Knox’s plan to expand their educational programs, offering more opportunities for Detroit’s youth to learn, grow, and possibly even start their entrepreneurial journey.
If you’re interested in learning more about them or keeping up-to-date with their latest happenings, you can check out their website or social media: Facebook and Instagram.
