The Willow Bakery & Cafe
From a young age, Jocelyn Thorwaldson knew she wanted to be an entrepreneur. Growing up in Saskatchewan, she always dreamed of owning her own business, and when the opportunity arose, she moved to Prince Edward Island to make that dream a reality. It was there, in the heart of Kensington, that she bought a historic home and opened The Willow House, a cozy bed and breakfast where guests could unwind in comfort.
Just a year later, fate seemed to align when a prime space became available in downtown Kensington. With a passion for baking and an eye for opportunity, Jocelyn opened Willow Bakery & Café in March 2020, right as the COVID-19 pandemic began. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the bakery quickly became known for its signature Cinny Buns and freshly baked scones, drawing in locals and tourists alike. Over time, the menu expanded with more delicious treats, all made from locally sourced ingredients.
Jocelyn credits much of her initial success to the support she received from CBDC Central PEI, which helped her navigate the unexpected costs and challenges of opening a new business during such uncertain times. Jocelyn described her experience as follows, “CBDC Central PEI was there for me on multiple occasions to help with resources and information to allow me to open my business and start my dream. They have always been very informative and helpful and are "actually there" for small businesses wanting them to succeed and "actually help!”
The success of the bakery grew quickly, and with it came the need to hire more staff. Jocelyn took pride in providing employment opportunities for local youth, many of whom joined the team with a passion for baking or a desire to learn. During the summer, when she has seasonal workers, the Willow Bakery has grown to have 30 staff members.
As the bakery continued to thrive, Jocelyn also expanded, opening a kiosk at Prince County Hospital to bring her baked goods to even more people, as well as a brand-new location in Hunter River. Through it all, Jocelyn has stayed focused on her core values: family, community, and the pursuit of her entrepreneurial dream.