I’m Kelly Hessler, Atlanta native & self-taught baker, decided to take matters into my own hands with this business - mainly because my sweet tooth refused to chill. Those cravings hit hard, so I dove in head first into the deep end of cake making.

The name originated from a few things. First, I have a strict “No Dog Left Unpetted” policy - if a dog is willing/allowed to be pet, I’m legally (emotionally) obligated to oblige. And second, is a tribute to my first Black Lab, Jack, who I firmly believe was (and still is) my soul dog, plus our extra snuggly, four-legged garbage disposal, Pickles. We do have Murphy - who isn’t technically a black lab, but has just enough lab energy to be an honorary founding member in the BLB community.

Self Proclaimed Cake Taster of the century

hEY BESTIE, I'M KELLY

For me, naming my business purely after cake felt too obvious for my personality. So, I mashed together two things that might not seem like they go together - but they absolutely do in my world: my love of dogs and my passion for baking. And just like an odd, yet, delicious flavor combo (looking at you salty-sweet snacks), Black Lab Bakery was born. Officially launched in October 2024, it has since grown into a full-fledged business - proving that this is the perfect recipe for success. 

Like frosting on a birthday cake, cherries on top of a sundae, and the first bite of a fresh-baked cupcake—we’re the real deal.

A party without cake is just a meeting" - Julia Child

I love the ability to take a serious moment and make it sentimental, but also finding a way to sneak in some humor. While I do have a few boundaries, creativity will never be one of them. I genuinely love this craft. At this point, I eat, breathe, and practically dream in cake layers. I hope to never lose this fire inside because it fuels my passion for baking. And lets be real…life’s just better when there’s a cake in the mix .