A new partnership between two local small businesses is set to bring a unique dessert option to Owensboro, as Hanna Bailey of Doozie Doez prepares to open a self-serve fridge inside Crazy Me Gifts and Apparel.
Bailey said the concept allows her to offer many of the benefits of a storefront without taking on the added overhead.
“I have a commercial kitchen license, so I have everything I need for a storefront without actually having one,” Bailey said. “I don’t really want a full storefront, so this allows me to offer those same options in a different way.”
The fridge is scheduled to open on Friday morning when the store opens, giving customers the ability to walk in and purchase items on demand.
Bailey said the idea came together through her long-standing relationship with Crazy Me owner Donna Southard, who has supported her business from the beginning.
“Donna has helped me from the very beginning,” Bailey said. “I’ve done a lot of pop-ups here, and when I mentioned the idea, she was all for it. I’m really grateful for her support.”
Bailey launched Doozie Doez in 2019 after years of baking, including experience gained while working on her family’s blueberry farm. What started as baking cakes for friends has quickly grown into a full-time venture.
“I started out just making cakes for friends, and it’s grown from there,” Bailey said. “Now I’m booked most weekends, so it’s definitely taken off.”
She said much of that growth has come from staying focused and pouring her energy into the business.
“When my dad passed away, I really threw myself into it,” Bailey said. “It gave me something to focus on, and I think that helped me grow the business.”
Bailey said her love for baking began at home.
“My mom is a great cook, and I grew up watching her,” Bailey said. “We didn’t have a lot, so she made all of our birthday cakes and treats, and that kind of stuck with me.”
The new fridge will feature a rotating selection of desserts, including whole cakes, cupcakes, and a new product Bailey is introducing called “cake cans.”
“There will be several cakes available, along with cupcakes and my new cake cans, which are more of a gourmet, layered dessert,” Bailey said.
The cake cans are designed for convenience, with a resealable lid that allows customers to enjoy them over time. Bailey said opening-day flavors are expected to include Dubai chocolate, white chocolate raspberry, Samoa, and banana cookie butter.
In addition to desserts, Bailey will also offer her homemade chicken salad.
“This chicken salad is the best in town,” Bailey said.
Southard said the partnership is a natural fit and builds on a relationship that has developed over time through pop-ups and collaborations.
“Anytime one small business can help another, it’s a great thing,” Southard said. “It truly is about supporting Hannah and what she’s built, and I’m excited to see how it continues to grow while also giving our customers something new.”
The fridge will be stocked daily, giving customers the option to stop in and grab desserts without pre-ordering, though custom orders can still be arranged for pickup at the store.
Crazy Me, located at 235 East 20th Street, is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Southard said the addition aligns with the store’s customer base and offers added convenience for shoppers.
“A lot of times, people are looking for something quick for a birthday or celebration,” Southard said. “Now they can pick up a gift and something sweet all in one stop.”
By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times