Cookie shop in central Hamilton closes after 5 years

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Published January 30, 2023 at 7:00 pm

A candy and customized cookie shop with a corner location in Hamilton is closing after playing out its lease.

The shop hello baked ended its run at 342 Barton St. E., at Emerald Ave., after being based there since 2017. The shop had a niche in making themed cookies to celebrate life events — such as birthdays, engagements, and weddings — and to accentuate marketing campaigns for companies. Baking entrepreneur Jessica Lee developed the shop after, per an online bio, taking up baking and decorating cookies as a hobby.

The lease on the shop expired at the end of December, and Lee wrote online that it was time to have a break. Its final batch of cookies is to be picked up on Tuesday (Jan. 31).

“Although it’s a bittersweet decision, this feels like the right time for a change,” Lee wrote in a recent Instagram post.

“I’ve had the most wonderful experiences with you as customers,” Lee added. “You’re thoughtful, kind, creative people who’ve made this experience so fun over the years. You’ve supported in myriad ways — in the shop, at pop-ups, online, with collaborations and events, or even just swinging by to say ‘hello’ — and I am so grateful to each and every one of you. I couldn’t have asked for a better community!”

 

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That particular stretch of Barton, between Victoria Ave. and Wentworth St., still has a couple of options for Hamiltonians who prioritize eating and shopping local.

Barton Lettuce (337 Barton E.) is nearing two full years as an outlet for buying local, fresh fruits and vegetables. Emerald Coffee (340 Barton E.) also offers an independent café that is away from the hustle and bustle of King St., and also has a patio in the rear that is available during the more temperate months.