Kempf bakes up a new beginning in Brighton

BRIGHTON - While the farmers get up to feed the livestock, Amber Kempf gets up to feed the farmers. The head cook for the Mid-Prairie Community School District has decided to spread her wings and branch out on her own to open The Wooden Spoon Bakery & Cafe at 305 North Benton Street in Brighton.

Kempf said she has had a love of baking her entire life and was inspired by her grandmother. For the past few years she has had an in-home business baking cakes and other pastries while also being the head cook and nutrition director at Mid-Prairie for the past 15 years. However, having gone to school to be a baker, owning her own business has always been her dream.

'My kids are old enough that they are more self efficient and I can do what I've been wanting to do,” she said.

Originally from Wellman but now living in Kalona, Kempf said she settled on the little yellow building just off Highway 1 because it was exactly what she had been looking for. The building was previously Sweet Blessings Bakery and Cafe and was already set up for food service.

With the help of her husband, the pair were able to do light remodeling and have the space ready to go in about two months. She created the menu herself and serves breakfast and pastries all day. Daily lunch specials are offered and everything is made from scratch.

Having just opened on Dec. 3, Kempf said she is slowly gaining her footing and learning her way. She said it was quite overwhelming at first but with almost two weeks under her belt she is feeling better everyday.

Kempf said she would like to encourage people to stop out for a bite and that the local amenities, like Lake Darling, make the drive worthwhile. For those who aren't sure what to try, Kemp suggests the Farmer's Feast which comes with eggs, fried potatoes, a choice of bacon or sausage and a pastry from the case.

The Wooden Spoon Bakery & Cafe is located at 305 North Benton Street in Brighton. It is open from 6:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. More information can be found on the company Facebook page: The Wooden Spoon Bakery & Cafe.