Valentine specials at Kim's Little Bake Shop

Kim's Little Bake Shop, located on the corner of Schiller Street and River Park Drive within ThINK Custom, is taking special orders for Valentine's Day treats. Above, owner Kim Butz showcases her selection of baked goods. (Press photo by Caroline Rosacker)
By Caroline Rosacker
In September, part-time resident Kim Butz of Waterloo was looking for a retail space for her "pop-up" bakery following a successful summer as "The Scone Lady" at Guttenberg's Farmer's Market.
Kim has always enjoyed baking and was looking for a small space within a retail environment where she could expand her business. When she approached ThINK Custom owner Ryan Burke she had no idea he was also looking for a customer service representative for ThINK's Guttenberg location on the corner of Schiller Street and River Park Drive, a few steps from Kim, and her husband, Brian's rental property. "Living on Schiller Street, Brian and I were aware of all the traffic that moved through town," she told the Press.
Kim has always been drawn to baking, and provided holiday treats and birthday cakes for fellow employees since her first job in high school. "I enjoyed baking treats and sharing them with coworkers," she commented. "If someone was celebrating a birthday – I was happy to bake a cake,"
When Kim became a mother she baked every birthday cake for her daughter and made treats for her classmates. "I am happy to see she is taking on baking as well," she said with a smile.
As a simple baker, Kim is not interested in decorating cakes with piping and flowers, but she is willing if someone shows her an idea. "If you have a special event, I would be happy to help you out," she noted.
Kim is beginning to establish regular customers and enjoys communicating and supporting other local business. "We all work together to encourage customers to shop and dine at neighboring businesses," she shared.
Valentine's Day specials
Kim will be taking special orders for sugar cookies, cupcakes and cake balls packaged in themed boxes this upcoming Valentine's Day.
If you would like to special order a delicious home baked treat for your sweetheart, message Kim on her Facebook Page at Kim's Little Bake Shop, or contact her directly at 319-240-6861.
Kim will also have home-baked items available that day for walk-in customers.
"I have enjoyed meeting Guttenberg residents and tourists that travel through the community. Everyone has been so friendly," she concluded.