I’ve been sharing quite a bit in Instagram Stories the last few days, but wanted very much to do something more permanent this week — by way of my Instagram grid and this site — to spotlight and support local Black-owned businesses. With that in mind, today I am featuring a super talented someone who is part of the Rhody food scene that you may not be aware of. You might not know her this minute, but I’m betting you’re going to want to order one of her custom creations in the very near future.

Who: Schantel Maxine Neal of Maxine Baked

Tag Line: “Tasty Sweets Made The Old Fashioned Way!”

Inspiration: Baking cakes from scratch with her “Grammie Maxine”

Known For: Cupcakes and cakes, made to order (Also, you won’t believe the outstanding menu options available for speciality cupcake orders.)

Maxine Baked is based out of Hope & Main, the non-profit food incubator in Warren that launched 6 years ago and where many of your favorite Rhody food and drink companies have gotten their start.

Above Images, clockwise starting at the top:

1. Ms. Neal, holding one of her creations (Before the pandemic, she was hosting events that combined cake and cookie decorating with cocktails that looked so fun.)

2. Rosette Cake

3. Strawberry Topped Cupcakes

4. Funfetti Cake

5. Madelines With Strawberry Glaze

Site: Go to MaxineBaked.com for complete details and order info.

Instagram: Follow @MaxineBaked for updates, collaborations, and more.