In the RBA Member Spotlight series, we'll be profiling valued members of the Retail Bakers of America community.

This week, we're looking at Wilson's Bakery in Warner Robins, Georgia. The bakery offers everything from sweet breakfast pastries and donuts to cookies, cupcakes and cakes. One of its most famous sweets is Fingernut Cookies, made with rich butter and Georgia pecans. Many generations have come to Wilson's Bakery for their special dessert and special event cakes, including wedding cakes.

Wendy Wilson grew up in the business. She is the third owner of Wilson's Bakery, having purchased the bakery in 1989 from her parents.

Get to know Wendy Wilson and Wilson's Bakery more below.

How many years have you been in business?

Wilson's Bakery: 34 years.

What made you want to get into the baking industry/why are you passionate about baking?

I am 3rd generation. The bakery originated in 1953. I purchased it from my father in 1989. I grew up in the industry of traditional bakers. I love the reward of being a part of a person's day with a fresh pastry, or a memory in their life event like a birthday cake. We are heavily involved in the community.  We love to #bakesmiles.

What are your top-selling products/what product do you consider to be your specialty?

We have several cookies that are popular among our fan base and have been with us since the beginning. We sell a large amount of petit fours as well as donut items. Our wholesale line has picked up tremendously over the year.

What do you see trending in the industry?

The industry has shifted to fast pace and convenience. Online shopping and shipping are bigger than ever. A lot of the older flavors seem to be coming back around with a new twist.

How has your RBA membership made a difference in your business?

I am thankful for the resources that RBA gives me. The RBA keeps me connected with fellow bakers.

What have you learned from customers over the years?

They love experiences and if you give them that, they will be returning. They want to feel important and that they matter.

What are your plans for the bakery in the coming years (expansion, digital, new offerings, etc.)?

Expansion of a cafe, and trying to enter the world of online shipping.

What do you look for when hiring staff?

Integrity. If they do not line up with our mission statement, they are not usually a good fit. it is imperative that future employees understand our business to be able to implement our values and what we are all about to the customer.

What would you have done differently in starting your business/what do you wish you could tell your past self when starting your business?

I bought the bakery at 21 years old. I have learned a lot and continue to learn. I wish I had more human resource and leadership skills back then and understand that not everyone will eat, breathe the bakery like I grew up doing.

Interested in learning more about becoming a member of the Retail Bakers of America? Click here.

Current RBA members, email Marlene O’ Connell (marlene@retailbakersofsmerica.org) to learn how you can be featured in an upcoming member spotlight.