The demand for fresh, high-quality, locally sourced food is growing, with consumers increasingly seeking products free from preservatives and additives. Ashley Keiber, the owner of The Rolling Pin Artisan Bakery and Café, has successfully tapped into this trend, blending her passion for baking with a commitment to providing wholesome, freshly made goods. Through dedication and a focus on quality, she has built a thriving business that has earned her recognition in her community.
A Journey to Entrepreneurship
Keiber’s path to becoming a business owner was shaped by her academic background and diverse experiences in the food service industry. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Wright State University and gained practical experience working in various bakery roles before establishing her own business. “To have a successful business, it takes a lot of work. It requires a significant amount of time and energy,” Keiber explains. “What truly makes me successful is the time I invest in it.”
Before opening The Rolling Pin, Keiber worked as a pastry supervisor at Kona Kraft Kitchen in Dublin, Ohio, and as a croissant team leader at Give Thanks Bakery in Rochester, Michigan. These roles gave her invaluable experience in pastry and bakery management.
Fresh Bread: A Growing Trend
As a business owner, Keiber has adopted the growing trend of offering fresh bread with minimal processing. “Fresh bread is a huge thing right now. Many customers are looking for less processed options, no additives and no preservatives, which drives many people to our bakery,” she explains. This demand for cleaner, more natural food has become a key factor in the success of her business.
The Rolling Pin has become a staple in the Wapakoneta community thanks to Keiber’s focus on providing high-quality products. Her bakery offers an array of artisan breads, pastries, and other baked goods — all made with simple, fresh ingredients. Her dedication to using no preservatives or artificial additives sets her bakery apart from others in the area.
Balancing Business and Life
Keiber’s approach to leadership includes a strong focus on work-life balance. “I strive to maintain a work-life balance and ensure my employees have one because it’s crucial for keeping them happy,” she says. Keiber recognizes that the success of her business is rooted not only in her efforts but also in maintaining a positive, supportive environment for her team.
Keiber’s commitment to her employees is reflected in her ability to inspire a team-oriented atmosphere at The Rolling Pin. By investing time and energy into both the business and her employees’ well-being, she ensures that the bakery continues to thrive.
Additionally, Keiber has benefited richly from the help of her father, Timothy, who assisted in renovating The Rolling Pin’s location and built custom furniture for the bakery. Without his help, the business would not be what it is today.
Looking Forward: A Bright Future for The Rolling Pin
The success of The Rolling Pin Artisan Bakery and Café has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the business was awarded the Emerging Business of the Year by the Wapakoneta Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Keiber was recognized by Marquis Who’s Who with inclusion in their prestigious biographical volumes.
Looking ahead, Keiber plans to continue growing her business and offering high-quality, freshly made goods to her community. “Just keep at it. Believe in yourself. If other people can do it, you can too,” she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs.
With her commitment to excellence and passion for baking, Keiber is poised to continue making a significant impact on the artisanal bakery world.
