?? Spotlight on Wheatberry Bakeshop: A Rising Star in Charlotte’s Baking Scene ???

Meet Haley Woodard , the owner and head artisan behind Wheatberry Bakeshop, a charming bakery inspired by the warmth and community of modern European bakeries. Her goal? To create a neighborhood one-stop shop where you can grab a croissant, enjoy a coffee, or pick up a cake—and feel completely at home.Her story is shaped by diverse experiences and a passion for her craft. Growing up as a homeschooled kid, Haley spent her lunch breaks watching Good Eats where she became captivated by the science and art behind food. Early stints at Dunkin’, Starbucks, and Chick-fil-A gave her a deep appreciation for service and hospitality, even though the corporate world wasn’t her calling. Those experiences instilled one of her core values: taking care of the customer and creating memorable experiences.

A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Charlotte, Haley earned both a Bachelor’s in Food Service Management and an Associate in Baking and Pastry. Her capstone? An internship at the prestigious Barn at Blackberry Farm in Tennessee, where she experienced firsthand the care and detail that high-end establishments put into serving guests. She describes this time as foundational, shaping her approach to baking and hospitality. Like many creative entrepreneurs, Haley found her breakthrough during the pandemic. What began as an Instagram account showcasing cakes quickly gained traction thanks to her innovative yet approachable style. Reflecting on her approach, Haley shares, “We like to make things just a little bit different—not too far past the comfort zone, but still approachable.” Her apple pie with miso caramel is a perfect example: the salty miso balances the sweet caramel beautifully, resulting in a flavor that is both unique and delightfully familiar.

Right now, you can find Haley and Wheatberry Bakeshop at the South End (Atherton) Farmers Market on weekends, as well as through local wholesale partners like Summit Coffee on Plaza and Not Just Coffee. And exciting news is on the horizon: Wheatberry will soon open its first brick-and-mortar location at The Winnefred Plaza in South End! ??

Haley’s story is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of community. Self-financed and self-driven, she embodies what it means to be a small business owner with heart. Her vision is simple yet profound: to bring people comfort and quality through her bakery. Whether it’s through a flaky croissant, a beautifully balanced cake, or just a warm smile, Haley’s goal is to make everyone feel like they’re part of the community at Wheatberry Bake Shop. As she takes this next step, we can’t wait to see how the Charlotte community rallies around her. Haley is the kind of person you root for—down-to-earth, service-minded, and endlessly talented. If you haven’t tried Wheatberry yet, consider this your sign. ??