About Us — Sweet Crumbs Bakery | Our Story, Team & Values

How It All Started

From a Kitchen to Three Shops

Sweet Crumbs Bakery began in 2005 as a dream born in the kitchen of Rose Martinez. What started as baking cakes for neighbors and friends quickly blossomed into something extraordinary. Rose's passion for combining traditional family recipes with innovative flavors created a loyal following that grew through word of mouth alone.

By 2010, the demand had outgrown her home kitchen, and the first Sweet Crumbs storefront opened on Maple Avenue in Willowbrook. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goods drew in customers from across the city. Encouraged by the community's love, Rose opened a second location downtown in 2016 and a third in Riverside in 2021.

Today, Sweet Crumbs Bakery is proud to serve over 50,000 customers a year. Every single item is made by hand in our kitchens using time-honored techniques, the freshest local ingredients, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Explore Our Menu

Milestones

Our Journey Through the Years

From a single oven to three thriving bakery locations, every year has been a sweet adventure.

2005

The Beginning

Rose Martinez starts baking cakes from her home kitchen, selling to friends, family, and neighbors.

2008

First Catering Contract

Sweet Crumbs lands its first wedding cake order — a five-tier vanilla beauty that became the talk of the town.

2010

Willowbrook Opens

The first brick-and-mortar shop opens on 142 Maple Avenue, Willowbrook. Lines form around the block on opening day.

2013

Best of the City Award

Sweet Crumbs wins "Best Local Bakery" in the Willowbrook Gazette's annual awards, the first of many accolades.

2016

Downtown Location

A second shop opens at 28 Oak Street in the heart of downtown, bringing our treats to a whole new audience.

2019

Online Ordering Launches

We introduce our online order system, allowing customers to pre-order custom cakes and reserve their favorites.

2021

Riverside Expansion

Our third location opens at 710 River Road, Riverside — our biggest and most beautiful shop yet.

2025

20 Years of Sweetness

Celebrating two decades of baking joy. Over 2,300 five-star reviews, three locations, and a community that feels like family.

Our People

Meet the Team Behind the Magic

Every cake, every cookie, and every smile is made possible by our passionate and dedicated team.

Rose Martinez

Founder & Head Baker

Rose's lifelong love of baking started with her grandmother's recipes. She brings 30+ years of experience and a contagious passion for perfection.

Marco Martinez

Co-Owner & Operations

Rose's husband Marco ensures the business runs smoothly behind the scenes — from sourcing ingredients to managing deliveries and finances.

Elena Torres

Lead Pastry Chef

Trained at the Culinary Institute, Elena creates our signature pastries and seasonal specials. Her macarons are legendary in Willowbrook.

James Chen

Cake Designer

James transforms custom cake visions into edible art. Specializing in wedding and celebration cakes, his creations are breathtaking works of craftsmanship.

Sofia Rivera

Front of House Manager

Sofia is the first smile you see when you walk in. She manages our customer experience and ensures every visit is warm and memorable.

David Kim

Morning Baker

David starts at 4am to make sure our croissants, breads, and pastries are oven-fresh by opening time. His dedication is the backbone of our mornings.

What We Stand For

Our Core Values

These guiding principles shape everything we do — from the ingredients we choose to how we serve our community.

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Quality Ingredients

We source premium, locally grown ingredients whenever possible. Real butter, farm-fresh eggs, and pure vanilla — never shortcuts, never compromises.

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Handmade with Love

Every item is crafted by hand in our kitchens. No mass production, no factory lines — just passionate bakers creating with care and attention to detail.

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Community First

We are deeply rooted in our community. From local fundraisers to school events, we believe in giving back to the people who have supported us.

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Sustainability

We use eco-friendly packaging, reduce food waste through donation programs, and strive to make choices that are better for our planet.

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Innovation

While we honor tradition, we never stop experimenting. Seasonal specials, new flavor combinations, and creative techniques keep our menu exciting.

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Warm Hospitality

When you walk into Sweet Crumbs, you're family. We treat every customer with warmth, respect, and a genuine smile — every single time.

About Sweet Crumbs Bakery