A beloved bakery and cafe owner has shared her final thoughts following a decade of cake making in Wrexham.
Emma Wilson has been running Emz Cakes, first out of her home before moving to the city centre location, for over 10 years.
Her business was born out of a lifelong love for baking and a desire to bring cakes and sweet treats to the people of Wrexham.
However, in November of this year, Emma announced she would be turning off the whisks and ovens for the final time this December as she has chosen to sell the business.
Discussing this heart-breaking decision Emma said: "This is me claiming my life back, I want to not be stressed and to have a work life balance again."
The demands of running a business, as well as other challenging personal circumstances have put a huge amount of stress on the Wrexham baker who admits it has been a struggle over the past year.
She added: "I will never find a job I love as much and it is a a difficult decision but for me it is time to move on."
The last day of Emz Cakes will be tomorrow, Christmas Eve, however Emma will not be unemployed for long as she is set to start a new role as a GP receptionist in the new year.
While a GP receptionist is not a particularly 'relaxing role' Emma indicated that finding a fast-paced busy job would be an essential transition from Emz Cakes, as she thrives under the pressure.
When asked if she will continue baking in the future Emma said: "It started as a hobby and it will always be part of my life.
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"However, unless you are in the food or hospitality industry no one understands how difficult it is to run as the jobs never end."
Telling her close knit team of staff about her decision was "the most difficult part" for Emma, however she is certain her work family will remain close and they even have a 'boozy-brunch' planned for the new year.
Emma added: "I am so grateful to the staff and also everyone coming in and buying cakes from us over the years.
"We survived a pandemic and I am so so proud of everyone in the team.
"I feel like we really did make a positive impact in the community."
The impact was certainly felt in the comments on the announcement of closure on the Emz Cakes website.
Emma Burwood commented: "Chester street won’t be the same without you .Very difficult decision to make em. You and your family have grown your business into something amazing ."
Cheska Clarke posted: "Oh Emma there are no words. Thank you for all the amazing yummy treats & happiness you have brought to me & so many others & we wish you all the best going forwards."
However, praise, wellwishing and even some tears haven't just been online as Emma has on several occasions been stopped in supermarkets or on the street in relation to the news.
Looking to the future and reflecting on the past 10 years, Emma said: "It really has been my dream job and if I could go back in time I would 100% do it all again, but now is time for a new start."
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