Lexington Welcomes The Leaky Momma: A Unique Bakery for Breastfeeding Mothers
In the heart of Lexington, something special is about to unfold. A brand-new bakery, aptly named The Leaky Momma, is set to open on August 21st. This unique establishment isn’t just any bakery; it’s focused on helping breastfeeding mothers increase their milk supply with delicious and specially formulated lactation cookies.
Mercedes Eckman, a mom of three, is the mastermind behind this innovative concept. Like many mothers, she faced the challenges of breastfeeding while nurturing her second child. Eckman recounts, “It’s so stressful, so many tears, and you’d just do anything to get your milk supply up.” These personal experiences led her to start baking lactation cookies at home, using ingredients known to help boost milk production, including oats, flax seed, and brewer’s yeast.
After testing her recipes at home and receiving positive feedback from friends and fellow moms, Eckman decided to take the leap and expand her reach. She began selling her lactation cookies at local venues like the Lexington Farmers Market and the Local LEX Market, but the dream of having her own storefront kept calling her back.
Now, as she prepares to open The Leaky Momma on Southland Drive, Ekman is excited yet slightly nervous. “I get a lot of weird looks, crazy comments, questions, but I would too if I had no idea what lactation cookies were,” she shares. Yet, she enjoys answering questions and sharing the benefits of her cookies. “These are things that people need,” she states. “They actually really, really help moms going through postpartum, which is sometimes a really, really hard time.” It’s clear that Eckman genuinely cares about supporting other mothers during their breastfeeding journey.
What’s even more delightful is that the cookies are not just for moms. Eckman’s husband, a dedicated firefighter, has been one of her biggest supporters. He encouraged her to start selling the cookies and even brings them to the fire station. “My kids eat them all the time,” she adds, emphasizing that anyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
The flavors of the cookies range from classic chocolate chip to seasonal delights like cinnamon roll. “People often wonder if there’s any breast milk in the cookies,” Eckman laughs, “but rest assured, there is not!” It’s a humorous yet practical clarification that illustrates the light-hearted atmosphere surrounding the bakery.
The Leaky Momma is more than just a bakery; it’s a place rooted in community. Eckman hopes that her shop will be a hub for new moms to connect with each other, share their experiences, and find comfort during a challenging time. “I want moms to walk in, know they are welcomed, and feel understood,” she says, reflecting on her mission to create a supportive environment.
For those looking to drop by and try the lactation cookies, The Leaky Momma will open its doors at 8:30 AM. The shop is conveniently located right across the street from the popular Good Foods Co-op, making it easy for patrons to swing by for a sweet treat while running errands or grocery shopping.
The opening of The Leaky Momma shines a positive light on the struggles many mothers face and the creative solutions they come up with to support one another. Whether you’re a breastfeeding mom looking for a boost, a friend wanting to support your new mom pals, or just someone with a sweet tooth, Eckman welcomes you to her shop with open arms.
In a world where so many businesses focus on profit, Eckman’s bakery stands out as a labor of love designed to uplift and help mothers on their breastfeeding journeys. If you are in Lexington, don’t miss the chance to check out The Leaky Momma and perhaps bring along a friend or two for some delicious cookies that might just become a lifeline for someone facing the challenges of new motherhood.
So, mark your calendars and prepare for the sweet aromas and warm smiles awaiting you at The Leaky Momma. It’s not just a bakery; it’s a heartfelt dedication to mothers everywhere.
