#MerchantSpotlight: Meet Cindy Summers, owner of Sugar Fixé Pâtisserie in Downtown Oak Park!

How has the last three months affected Sugar Fixe?
“It’s definitely slower.  We don’t have the office workers, commuters, or wedding clients that we normally see each day and week.  But we are so very thankful for the many regular customers who are still coming to see us.  We love seeing your smiling eyes.”

What have you learned as a business owner over the last three months?
“My team rocks.  It’s a pandemic.  And we have to wear masks all day long.  But every personon my team shows up each day with a smile, positive attitude, and new ideas.  The business will only survive because of them.” 

How can the community help Sugar Fixe thrive in the coming months?
“Continue to shop local!  Not just for my business but for those around me too. If businesses fail then our community loses vibrancy and real people lose their livelihood.  Do it for my 20 employees and the thousands of other small business employees in our Village.” 

If you didn’t own a patisserie, what would be your dream career?
“Well, I left a corporate job to start the bakery.  So I am living out my dream right now!” 

Favorite local spot to dine?
“Impossible to pick just one.  The first that comes to mind is Hecho en Oak Park.  Amazing tacos and even better margaritas.” 

Favorite local spot to shop?
“Pumpkin Moon really transports me to childhood.  Such an amazing shop we are so lucky to have in Oak Park.  My daughter loves it so much that it has helped her learn how to budget andsave her allowance.” 

Favorite fun thing to do when you aren’t busy running your business?
“I have an 8 year old daughter and 20 month old twins that occupy all of my time while at home.  It’s crazy and fun and exhausting and I wouldn’t trade it for a thing.”

Anything else you’d like the community to know about you as an individual? 
“My husband and I moved to Oak Park 12 years ago.  Ten years ago I found an adorable, cornerstorefront and had a dream of turning it into a bakery.  I’m so appreciative of everyone whohelped make it happen and has supported me throughout the years.”