Where life’s sweetest moments come to life, Blue Sheep Bake Shop is more than a bakery—it’s a love story told in buttercream and ganache. Founded by Karin Giamella, the self-proclaimed “Director of Dessert Dreams,” this charming haven has grown from humble beginnings into a community favorite, blending artistic passion with delectable flavors.
Giamella’s journey, sparked by a single birthday cake for her son, has blossomed into a celebration of creativity and connection that defines every treat she and her team create.
From Hobby to Sweet Success
The journey began with a birthday cake for her son’s third birthday.
“I’ve always loved crafting and art,” Giamella says, “but it wasn’t until I was 33 that I discovered my passion for baking.” That one cake sparked interest from friends, then friends of friends, until she realized her creative outlet could blossom into something bigger.
Her talents were showcased nationally when she competed on Food Network and won a baking challenge, bringing her expertise to a wider audience. By 2011, Blue Sheep Bake Shop opened its first location in Green Brook. The bakery later moved to Somerville, and today operates a production kitchen in Bound Brook to meet its growing demand.
Among her standout projects: Giamella was commissioned by Princeton University to craft an intricate cake and baked 9,000 mini logoed cupcakes for PopSugar—a feat as impressive as it is delicious.
Love Baked In
Valentine’s Day is a particularly magical season at Blue Sheep Bake Shop, with every treat curated to celebrate love. From champagne-flavored cakes to heart-shaped confections, Giamella and her team craft desserts that capture the romance of the season.
“Inspiration can strike anywhere,” she shares. “I once saw a cute napkin at Target and thought, ‘That would make a great cake design.’”
One particularly unforgettable creation? A life-sized cake modeled after a handbag for a milestone birthday.
Signature Valentine’s items include intricately decorated macarons, themed gift boxes, and layered cakes bursting with decadent flavors. Every detail—from vibrant colors to playful designs—is infused with Giamella’s signature creativity.
A Team Effort
Behind every batch of cookies and every exquisitely frosted cake is a dedicated team working in harmony.
Planning for Valentine’s Day begins weeks in advance. Giamella and her production manager coordinate everything from ingredient orders to decorating schedules, ensuring that each treat meets the shop’s high standards.
“Organization is key,” Giamella says. “We set order limits and assign clear tasks so that everything runs smoothly.”
The team’s collaborative spirit doesn’t end with logistics.
“When brainstorming new ideas, we bounce concepts off each other,” Giamella explains. “It’s a mix of research, creativity, and teamwork that brings our vision to life.”
Community at the Core
Blue Sheep Bake Shop’s name may hint at a sense of individuality, but its heart lies in community.
Growing up, Giamella and her sister jokingly referred to themselves as the “black sheep” of their family. When it came time to name the business, the idea of “Blue Sheep” felt like a fun twist that captured their playful spirit. Today, the shop embodies that same balance of uniqueness and inclusivity.
Local influences shape much of what the bakery offers, from flavor choices to collaborations with other businesses. Seasonal bundles, like pairing sweets with locally sourced flowers, add a personal touch that resonates with customers.
“We want our desserts to feel like they’re part of something bigger,” Giamella says.
Collaborating with local businesses like Osprey Lane Boutique, Evolve Clothing Gallery, and Brunch by De Martino, Giamella’s bakery is a hub for partnerships and a shared love of artistry.
Crafting Joy, One Dessert at a Time
Perhaps what makes Blue Sheep Bake Shop truly special is the effort and heart poured into every creation.
Giamella sees her work as more than just baking; it’s about crafting experiences that bring people together. From the nervous customer ordering desserts for a surprise proposal to the regulars who pop in for a midweek treat, every interaction is a reminder of why she started this journey.
“We’re not just selling desserts,” Giamella reflects. “We’re creating moments of joy and connection.”
This Valentine’s Day, those moments are sweeter than ever at Blue Sheep Bake Shop.
Blue Sheep Bake Shop
Address: 9 Division St, Somerville, NJ 08876
Phone: (908) 393-1824
Website: bluesheepbakeshop.com