As the flowers bloom and the birds chirp, Easter is fast approaching – and you know what that means: it’s time to indulge in some sweet treats! But before you reach for the traditional chocolate eggs, let us introduce you to a delightful alternative that’s sure to make your taste buds sing: Whoopie Pies from the Whoopie Bakery.

So why are Whoopie Pies the perfect Easter treat, you ask? Well, let us count the ways.

First and foremost, Whoopie Pies are a delicious departure from the ordinary. Imagine sinking your teeth into two fluffy, cake-like layers, sandwiched together with a generous dollop of creamy filling – it’s like a taste of heaven in every bite. And with flavours ranging from classic chocolate to indulgent red velvet, there’s a Whoopie Pie to suit every palate.

But it’s not just about the taste – it’s about the experience too. Unlike traditional Easter eggs, which can be unwieldy and messy to eat, Whoopie Pies are perfectly portioned and oh-so-easy to enjoy. Plus, their compact size makes them ideal for sharing with friends and family – or keeping all to yourself, we won’t judge!

And let’s not forget about the fun factor. With their vibrant colours and playful shapes, Whoopie Pies are guaranteed to add a touch of whimsy to your Easter celebrations. Whether you’re hiding them in an Easter egg hunt or using them to decorate your holiday table, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.

But perhaps the best thing about Whoopie Pies is the joy they bring. From the moment you take that first bite to the last lingering taste of sweetness, they’re a true delight for the senses – and a wonderful way to spread Easter cheer to all who indulge.

So this Easter, why not shake things up and treat yourself (or someone special) to a box of Whoopie Pies from the Whoopie Bakery? With their irresistible flavour and undeniable charm, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Hop on over to our shop today and order our Limited Edition Easter Flavours, including Creme Egg and Mini Egg themed Whoopies. Trust us – your taste buds will thank you for ordering with us!

Happy Easter, everyone!

We get it. We hear you. We know we’re asking a lot. And we think you deserve an explanation.

 

Firstly, please know that we’re not the only ones charging this much. We did our market research before we launched, and believe it or not, we are competitively priced compared with those like us and those we aspire to compete with.

We all know that bricks and mortar shops come with unbelievable overheads these days – many shop-based businesses that are just about surviving are struggling to meet rising rents, energy, and staffing costs, not to mention the rising costs of every aspect of the supply chain. In the current climate, e-commerce seems like the most sensible business model.

But, we are a start-up entering a saturated market with an unknown product that no one was Googling until we turned up. We didn’t start with huge investment. We work around the clock and we don’t yet earn a living from the business – we are paying for everything out of our own pockets. Every discount, every refund, every courier eff-up, comes directly out of our personal pockets.

We don’t mean to sound like martyrs and we know for certain that we’re not the only ones…!! This is how it goes for almost every small start-up that doesn’t have big investment. We all have to work hard to grow organically.

E-Commerce Has its Own Overheads

It’s tough for little businesses like us hoping to break through in e-commerce. The costs are high, the customer expectations have been set by the big boys (Amazon, Tesco…), and the access to customers is extremely expensive (Google, Facebook, email marketing…). Little businesses are paying for every single flash you see of their products that are not on their own feeds. Every email they send, every Google Shopping Ad clicked, every Facebook ad.

They’re all fighting for your attention, your clicks, your custom, your CONVERSION. Getting paid isn’t the first priority. Just breaking even is. Paying staff, paying suppliers, getting the brand name known, designing and maintaining their website, constant photography…

And then there’s packaging. Ahhhh, packaging. You’d think couriers would be the biggest headache. Not so. We have a unique product so we had to have bespoke packaging designed, and it is an absolute minefield. We had no idea how hard, how time-consuming and how expensive it would be when we started our business. We’ve learnt a lot!!

Fortunately, a year in, we think we’ve finally cracked it with beautiful packaging that it is at once robust, efficient, sustainable, and scalable, but it’s taken a LOT of money and effort to get there.

But, none of this is really your concern

For any business to survive, and to be viable, it has to be able to compete. That’s just the way it goes. No point complaining about it. What matters to you as a customer is the value you get for your money. So, let’s come back to the original question, when you can buy a donut at Lidl for 35p, how can any business get away with charging £3-4 or more for a cake the same size?

Well, let’s think about that value for a moment. To get that donut from Lidl, you had to get out of your PJs (if indeed you wear any), leave your house, get yourself to the supermarket one way or another.

You had to pick the donut up and get to the till, most likely with a trolley-load full of shopping (because why would you go through all that hassle just for a 35p donut?!), queue, pay for your plastic bags or bag for life, bag up your own shopping, converse with the checkout person, and then get yourself home, get back into your PJs so that you could enjoy your donut on your sofa, uninterrupted, with your cup of tea and your cat (or dog, or ferret, whatever does it for you).

Phew. That was a lot of effort. We hope you reeeeeeally enjoy that donut. Don’t get us wrong, they are delicious! We love them. But, you really earned it.

Convenience and Quality

Now compare that to the handmade, artisan Whoopie which may have cost around £3.50-£4.50 depending on whether you got a discount and which platform you bought it on. The purchase was made online, from your sofa, right there in your PJs. An actual real-life expert Baker carefully handmade and hand-decorated your Whoopie.

Then someone else got up and went to work manually processing your order, paying the courier on your behalf, making all the courier arrangements, carefully wrapping and protecting each individual Whoopie, picking and packing your order so that you didn’t have to leave your house.

A couple of days later it was delivered to your door via 24-hour courier service (assuming the courier didn’t breakdown or get stuck in a motorway queue or flooding – it is the real world, after all), in beautiful packaging that kept it safe during transit. When it reached you, it still looked perfect and tasted delicious, for enjoyment on your sofa, without you having to lift a finger. Surely that’s value for money?

£3.50 for a Cup of Coffee? Sounds fair, if you think about…

We all know that cost isn’t just about the actual pricing of the individual product, and value isn’t just about the size. Consider how much money millions of people pay every day for a cup of coffee at high street coffee chains. Why do we do it, when most of us have coffee at home? Because they’re there – where we are – when we want it – making fresh coffee on our behalf and offering it up to us right there, usually with a smile, in the middle of the central business district of a busy town or city, where rents are high and competition is great. Consider the millions of dollars spent on marketing that led to that one decision in that moment that theirs would be the specific chain you’d choose for that single cup of coffee. And the discounts and offers that keep you going back.

Obviously, there are major differences in the costs between mass-produced products retailing in supermarkets and handmade products that artisan producers can preach about, but let’s be honest, in a cost-of-living crisis there is certainly a place for low-cost food, whatever your budget. We buy Lidl donuts when we happen to be there shopping anyway. They’re tasty, convenient, and excellent value. But we also know we’re getting huge added value when we choose to spend our money on any small e-commerce food business’ products online, even if, on the face of it, the products appear to cost more.

And if we consider that our key target-market is the gift market, well, a paper bag of six supermarket-bought donuts (that you had to go and get and then deliver yourself) v a box of six artisanal cakes packaged with attention to detail and delivered to your loved-one’s door with a hand-written, personalised message…well, you can be the judge.

Planning a wedding can be an exhilarating yet daunting task. From choosing the venue to picking out the perfect dress, there are countless details to consider. Fortunately, the internet offers a plethora of resources to help couples navigate the journey to their special day. Matt and I have been working in the wedding industry for years, Kate as a singer and then having owned a bell tent company, and Matt having provided catering as The Hull Pie for over 12 years.  Drawing on what we’ve learnt over the years about planning your wedding, we’ve put together a list of sites that might come in handy and take the pressure off you a little as you put together the day of your dreams. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, advice, or practical tools, these top 10 UK wedding sites will make your task fun, creative, and much, much simpler.

1. Hitched

Hitched is a one-stop destination for all things wedding-related. From venue ideas to supplier recommendations, this comprehensive site has everything you need to plan your dream wedding.

2. Wedissimo

Fed up with hours spent emailing those amazing wedding photographers you found on Instagram only to find out that they are out of budget or worse: in-budget but unavailable? Wedissimo will help you cut through the wedmin by making it easy for you to find the wedding photographer of your dreams, and book them online. You can even check whether they are available for your date before you spend precious time contacting them, as they have a real-time calendar function with every photographer. With over 100 wedding photographer packages to choose from, they have you covered!

3. Pinterest

Pinterest is a treasure trove of wedding inspiration, featuring millions of photos and ideas to spark your creativity. Whether you’re planning a rustic barn wedding or a glamorous city affair, you’ll find endless inspiration on Pinterest.

4. Instagram

Instagram is not just for sharing selfies – it’s also a hub for wedding inspiration. Follow wedding photographers, planners, and bloggers to fill your feed with beautiful images and useful tips for planning your big day.

5. Bridebook

Bridebook is like having a virtual wedding planner in your pocket. From budgeting tools to guest list managers, this app has everything you need to stay organised and stress-free throughout the planning process.

6. Vogue

For the fashion-forward bride, Vogue’s wedding section is a must-read. Drool over the stunning dresses and picture-perfect bridal couples and dream. From bridal trends to celebrity weddings, this iconic magazine offers plenty of inspiration for brides who want to make a style statement on their big day.

7. Rock n Roll Bride

If you’re looking to break free from tradition and celebrate your individuality, Rock n Roll Bride is the site for you. Filled with alternative wedding ideas and real wedding features, this blog proves that there are no rules when it comes to saying “I do”.

8.  Rock My Wedding

Rock My Wedding is a treasure trove of wedding inspiration, featuring real weddings, DIY tutorials, and expert advice to help you create the day of your dreams. Whether you’re planning a rustic outdoor wedding or a glamorous black-tie affair, you’ll find plenty of ideas to inspire you.

9. Love My Dress

Love My Dress is dedicated to all things vintage and elegant. From timeless wedding gowns to romantic venues, this blog celebrates the beauty of yesteryear while providing practical advice for modern brides.

10. North Sky Yurts

If you’re planning a wedding in the Great Outdoors, or have a venue that has limited or no on-site accommodation, North Sky Yurts offer luxuriously styled bell tents and yurts for enchanting event spaces and overnight clamping accommodation across the North of England, as well as a permanent Hen Camp called Birds and Bells. The company is run by female entrepreneurs Becca and Charlotte, who are incredibly passionate about what they do, will take care of all your needs, and are fantastic fun to work with.

 

Of course, no wedding is complete without a sweet treat, and The Whoopie Bakery has got you covered. Specialising in delicious whoopie pies and other baked goodies, we will add a touch of sweetness to your special day.

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but with the help of these top 10 UK wedding sites, you can take the stress out of the process and focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love with friends and family. Happy planning!

image source: London wedding photographers David & Joanna

We often get asked about the number of calories in our Whoopie Pies. This is a piece of analysis we will have done a little further down the line when we have the budget for it, but in the meantime, the best way to understand it is through comparison with an average piece of cake (although our Whoopies are far from average!!).

To make a fair comparison between a Whoopie Pie and a piece of cake in terms of calorie content, it’s important to consider the size and specific recipe of both. Cakes vary widely in size and ingredients, and the same goes for Whoopie Pies. However, we can provide a general comparison based on our typical servings:

 

1. Whoopie Pie: A standard-sized Whoopie Pie usually contains between 200-400 calories depending on the filling; the cakey layers, the creamy fillings and chocolatey toppings contribute to this calorie count. We offer two different kinds of Whoopies – our Premium collection, and our Simply Whoopie collection. Meanwhile, our Made without Gluten range offers delicious wheat-free cake in three different delicious flavours, and for the dairy-free, we have three vegan flavours available. If you’re looking for an irresistible treat that’s off the chart in terms of excellence, you can’t go wrong with our premium range. But if you’re looking for something a little simpler, less indulgent, and therefore slightly lower calorie, our Simply Whoopie range offers what you need. It is still made with our classic Whoopie sponge, but has a simpler filling, and no toppings. It’s more like a traditional and standard Whoopie Pie as you’d find in America. And because it has fewer ingredients and takes less time to make, we’ve been able to lower the price too!

 

2. Cake: A standard piece of cake can obviously vary significantly in size and ingredients. A small piece of plain sponge cake with no frosting might contain around 150-250 calories. However, a slice of a rich, frosted cake, such as chocolate cake with buttercream frosting, can range from 300 to 500 calories or more, depending on the size of the slice and the richness of the frosting.

 

In a general sense, Whoopie Pies and cakes can be somewhat comparable in terms of calorie content, especially if the cake is relatively small and not heavily frosted. However, when you consider the richer and larger cakes often served on special occasions, the calorie content of a piece of cake is likely to exceed that of a Whoopie Pie.

Nutritional information and calorie content is information we hope to be able to provide further down the line. Sign up to our mailing list below for 10% off your first order and to stay up to date with products, offers and business development news.

Our delicious Whoopie Pies are delightful sandwich-like treats with soft, cakey layers and creamy fillings. Here in the UK, not many people have heard of them or know what they are. But over on the US East Coast, they are a time-honoured tradition, with a rich and interesting history filled with folklore and culinary pride. But where was the original Whoopie Pie made, and what’s the story behind this iconic American dessert? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the origins of the Whoopie Pie and explore the mystery surrounding its creation.

 

A Tale of Multiple Claims

 

The exact origin of the Whoopie Pie is a subject of debate, and there are multiple claims to its creation. As a result, it’s challenging to pinpoint a single location as the definitive birthplace of the Whoopie Pie. Let’s explore some of the leading contenders:

 

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

 

One of the most prominent claims comes from the Pennsylvania Dutch Country, particularly the Amish and Pennsylvania German communities. Here, Whoopie Pies are sometimes known as “gobs.” The Amish have a long-standing tradition of baking, and Whoopie Pies have been a part of their culinary heritage for generations. The term “Whoopie Pie” is said to have originated from the enthusiastic exclamation “Whoopie!” that children would make when they found these delightful treats in their lunchboxes.

 

Maine

 

Another strong contender is the state of Maine, where Whoopie Pies are highly celebrated and often referred to as “Maine Whoopie Pies.” These sweet sandwiches have become an integral part of Maine’s culinary culture. The Maine version typically features chocolate cake layers and a creamy filling, frequently made with marshmallow fluff. The state even declared the Whoopie Pie as its official state treat in 2011.

 

New England

 

New England, in general, has a deep connection to Whoopie Pies, with Maine as a prominent representative of the region’s Whoopie Pie culture. The classic combination of soft cakey layers and creamy filling has a strong presence in New England, and various states have put their unique spins on this beloved treat.

 

Amish Communities Beyond Pennsylvania

 

Amish communities can be found in several states, including Ohio and Indiana, and they’ve also claimed the tradition of making Whoopie Pies. The Amish of these regions have embraced the sweet charm of Whoopie Pies and added their own local twists to the classic recipe.

 

Born in the USA – But upping the game here in the UK!

Our Whoopie Pie range is bringing something REALLY special to the Whoopie Pie tradition with the artisan decoration and classic British dessert flavours. Indeed, we even had a customer from Boston, MA, at one of our market stalls exclaim “These are Whoopie Pies!! We don’t have Whoopie Pies like these! So much variety!”.  Whilst we offer a Classic Chocolate & Toasted Marshmallow Whoopies, we also offer a range of flavours that are innovative where Whoopies are concerned as well as gluten free and vegan options.

 

Conclusion: A Shared Culinary Heritage

The origins of the original Whoopie Pie remain shrouded in mystery and folklore, with various regions and communities staking their claims. While it may be challenging to determine a single birthplace, what’s undeniable is the enduring appeal and shared culinary heritage of the Whoopie Pie. Whether you enjoy a classic Maine Whoopie Pie, a Pennsylvania Dutch gob, or a local adaptation, these sweet treats continue to capture the hearts and taste buds of dessert enthusiasts across the United States.

 

Starting and running a business can be a daunting task, but choosing the right location can significantly impact your chances of success.

 

One hidden gem for entrepreneurs is our hometown of Hull, a city that offers a unique blend of affordability, creativity, and community support. Drawing on our experience of starting and running several small businesses including The Hull Pie (12 years) and The Whoopie Bakery (1 year), here are 8 compelling reasons why we think Hull is a great place to start and run a business.

 

1. Low Living Costs: A Financial Breathing Space

One of the biggest hurdles for budding entrepreneurs is the financial strain that often accompanies the early stages of a business. Hull addresses this concern with significantly lower living costs compared to many other parts of the country. Affordable housing translates to the lowest mortgage payments or rents in the country and living expenses for better quality housing, providing entrepreneurs with some much-needed financial breathing space as they navigate the challenges of starting a business.

2. Low Start-Up Costs: A Competitive Edge

In addition to low living costs, Hull offers entrepreneurs lower start-up costs for their businesses. Whether it’s unit rent, market rents, vehicle purchases, or professional services, the overall cost of running a business is more competitive than elsewhere in the UK. This financial advantage can make a significant difference for startups, allowing them to allocate resources more strategically and weather the initial uncertainties of entrepreneurship.

3. Flexible Staffing: Adapting to the Entrepreneurial Journey

Hull’s lower living costs contribute to a pool of high-caliber, flexible staff. Recognising the challenges faced by new businesses, Hull’s workforce is often willing to adapt to the unique demands of startups. This flexibility becomes crucial for businesses managing fluctuating cash flows and working with limited initial capital. Having committed, creative and adaptable staff can be a key factor in the early survival and eventual success of a business.

4. Creative Networks: The Village in the City

Hull is often described as a big village despite being a city. This close-knit community fosters fantastic creative networks where freelancers collaborate and support each other. Building a team of like-minded, grounded, and down-to-earth professionals becomes more accessible in this connected environment, providing businesses with a strong foundation for success. For example, we’ve established longstanding relationships with amazing suppliers, such as wholesalers, HR, printers, designers, marketing professionals, market traders and food outlets.

5. Supportive and Well-Connected Infrastructure: Building Relationships for Success

Hull’s status as a relatively small city contributes to a well-connected infrastructure. Local councils, media outlets, the university, and key players in various sectors are intertwined. Establishing a reputation for reliability and professionalism opens doors to collaborations and ongoing support from local organisations. Personal connections quickly transform into professional opportunities, creating a robust support network for businesses. With The Hull Pie and The Whoopie Bakery, we’ve received fantastic support from local organisations such as Hull City Council , East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Cottingham Parish Council, the Univeristy of Hull, Reckitt, Smith & Nephew, CHCP, Willerby Caravans, to name but a few.

6. Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Spreading the Buzz

The ‘big village’ atmosphere of Hull makes word-of-mouth marketing particularly effective. A well-timed social media post or a feature in local media can lead to rapid business growth. The close community ensures that news travels fast, helping businesses generate buzz and build a customer base quickly. This dynamic environment is especially beneficial for small businesses looking to establish themselves in the market.

7. Loyal – and Friendly – Customer Base: The Heart of Success

As businesses gain traction in Hull, they discover a customer base that is not only loyal but also friendly. The personal connections formed at market stalls and through local delivery routes contribute to a strong bond between businesses and customers. Loyalty programs become a hit, and customers actively engage with the brand, creating a foundation for sustained success.

8. Quality of Life: A Hidden Gem Beyond Business Success

Above all else, quality of life in Hull can be truly fantastic. Despite being a city with high levels of deprivation and social challenges, our experience tells a different story. Hull is a place teeming with down-to-Earth, friendly, creative, and community-driven individuals who prioritise connection with others above everything else. It’s often said that Hull has a way of drawing you in, and in our case, it’s true – friendships and communities tend to be deep-rooted, not fleeting.

While the nightlife might not be the city’s strongest suit, Hull compensates with an abundance of great restaurants, cultural performances and events, museums, cafes, and markets. From our perspective, one of the greatest perks is that Hull is on the edge of some of the most beautiful countryside and coastline in the UK. The Yorkshire Wolds, the Lincolnshire Wolds, the Yorkshire Moors, and the Yorkshire Dales are all within easy reach for day trips. For us, this combination of a thriving business environment and easy access to breathtaking natural landscapes is nothing short of living the dream in Hull.

 

Conclusion

Based on our experience of running The Hull Pie and more recently starting up The Whoopie Bakery, Hull emerges as an ideal location for entrepreneurs seeking a supportive, cost-effective, and vibrant environment to start and run their businesses. With its unique blend of low living and start-up costs, flexible staffing, creative networks, well-connected infrastructure, effective word-of-mouth marketing, and a loyal customer base, Hull offers the perfect ecosystem for businesses to thrive. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it remains a beacon for those looking to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

 

 

By Katie Cunnah, Managing Director, The Whoopie Bakery,

and Marketing & Communications Manager for The Hull Pie

Photo of Hull by 43 Clicks North on Unsplash

Celebrating National Cake Day in the UK

 

The United Kingdom is known for its rich culinary traditions and love for tea and cake. In recent years, one particular day has become especially sweet for all cake enthusiasts: National Cake Day. But what exactly is National Cake Day, why do we celebrate it in the UK, and how does it benefit small businesses and the economy? In this blog post, we will explore the significance of National Cake Day and its relevance to businesses like our beloved Whoopie Pie business.

 

What is National Cake Day?

National Cake Day, celebrated on November 26th in the UK, is a day dedicated to the love of all things cake, and that’s why we love it. It’s a delightful occasion for people to indulge in their favourite cake flavours, experiment with new recipes, and appreciate the artistry of bakers across the nation. Whether you’re a fan of classic Victoria sponge, rich chocolate fudge cake, or a unique treat like whoopie pies, National Cake Day is the perfect excuse to treat your taste buds.

 

Why Do We Have National Cake Day in the UK?

National Cake Day in the UK is a celebration of the country’s long-standing relationship with cakes and desserts. Cakes have played a significant role in British culture for centuries, from afternoon tea to special occasions like weddings and birthdays. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting these traditions. It also provides an opportunity to highlight the creativity and talent of local bakers.

 

How Does It Help Small Businesses and the Economy?

National Cake Day is more than just a celebration of delicious desserts. It plays a vital role in supporting small businesses and boosting the economy. Here’s how:

1. Promoting Local Bakeries: National Cake Day encourages people to explore their local bakeries and patisseries. This surge in demand benefits small businesses by increasing foot traffic and generating sales.

2. Boosting Online Sales: In the digital age, many small bakeries have an online presence. National Cake Day is the perfect time for these businesses to showcase their delectable creations and attract online customers, helping them expand their reach.

3. Culinary Tourism: Some food enthusiasts take National Cake Day as an opportunity to embark on cake-tasting adventures. They travel to different towns and cities to sample various cakes, thus boosting tourism and local economies.

4. Creating Jobs: Increased sales during National Cake Day often require additional staff in bakeries, which means more job opportunities in the community.

 

How Do People Celebrate National Cake Day?

People celebrate National Cake Day in various ways, such as:

1. Baking at Home: Many individuals take the opportunity to bake their own cakes and share them with friends and family. It’s a chance to showcase their baking skills and creativity.

2. Visiting Bakeries: People often visit their favorite bakeries or try new ones to purchase cakes, pastries, and other sweet treats.

3. Participating in Events: Some towns and cities host cake-related events and competitions, where amateur and professional bakers can showcase their creations and win prizes.

4. Sharing on Social Media: The power of social media cannot be underestimated. People love sharing photos of their cake creations and experiences, generating buzz around National Cake Day.

 

Why is National Cake Day Relevant to Our Whoopie Pie Business in the UK?

National Cake Day is highly relevant to businesses like ours, specialising in Whoopie Pies. Here’s why:

1. Increased Sales: National Cake Day provides an excellent opportunity to boost our sales. We can create special Whoopie Pie flavours, promotions, or discounts to attract more customers.

2. Showcasing Creativity: It’s a chance to showcase our creativity and unique Whoopie Pie recipes to a wider audience. We can experiment with new flavors and engage with our customers through interactive events or social media posts.

3. Strengthening Brand Presence: Participating in the celebration allows us to strengthen our brand presence in the market and gain new customers who might not have tried our Whoopie Pies before.

In Conclusion…

National Cake Day in the UK is a delightful celebration of the country’s rich cake tradition. It supports small businesses, boosts the economy, and brings joy to cake lovers across the nation. For businesses like ours, specialising in Whoopie Pies, this day offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with customers, showcase our creativity, and increase sales. Never has it been easier to order from small local bakeries, with many advertising online and sending their produce by post. Ours are available in cake selection boxes, and you can even choose which flavours you’d like in the box! So, mark November 26th on your calendar and get ready to indulge in a slice of your favourite cake or a scrumptious Whoopie Pie on this sweet day!

We’ve got exciting news coming about an amazing collaboration to celebrate National Cake Day! Stay tuned on our social media and via our mailing list!!

Image by Mathias Reding on Pixels

Embracing the Spirit of Thanksgiving: A Guide to Celebrating in the UK

As a business built around American-style products, we think it’s important to honour the traditions of the States. Thanksgiving, a quintessential American holiday, might not be traditionally celebrated in the United Kingdom, but that doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the spirit of gratitude, togetherness, and a delicious feast right here in the UK. While it may not be a national holiday on British shores, Thanksgiving can be a wonderful opportunity to bring friends and family together for a heartwarming celebration. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to celebrate Thanksgiving right here in the UK, and we offer some tips to make your celebration feel like a true American holiday.

 

1. Inviting Loved Ones

Thanksgiving is all about spending quality time with your loved ones, so the first step is to invite friends and family to join in the festivities. Send out heartfelt invitations, whether digitally or via traditional mail, and encourage everyone to come together for a memorable day of gratitude.

 

2. Decorate with Fall Flair

Create a warm and inviting atmosphere by decorating your home with the colors and symbols of autumn. Use warm, earthy tones, and consider incorporating elements like pumpkins, gourds, and cornucopias as centrepieces. This will give your home a cosy, seasonal feel that’s perfect for the occasion.

 

3. Give Thanks

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, so take some time for a moment of reflection. Ask your guests to share what they’re thankful for and encourage heartfelt conversations. You can even provide small notebooks for guests to jot down their thoughts and express their gratitude.

 

4. The Feast

The centerpiece of any Thanksgiving celebration is of course the food. Traditional Thanksgiving dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes can be the stars of your feast. But feel free to add your own twist, and don’t forget to include some British favourites to make your guests feel at home.

 

5. Dessert Delights

Pies are a quintessential part of Thanksgiving dessert, so make sure to have a selection of pies on hand. Classics like pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and apple pie are always a hit. And why not include some Whoopie Pies for a delightful twist on traditional American sweets? They are gaining popularity in the UK and will add a unique touch to your celebration. As an American product handmade right here in the UK, and available throughout November in special American, Fall and Thanksgiving-inspired flavours, these will really help you and your guests get into that American spirit.

 

6. Activities for All Ages

To keep everyone engaged and entertained, consider planning some fun activities. You could organize a friendly football match, have a game of touch rugby, or even set up a craft station where kids and adults can make Thanksgiving-themed decorations.

 

7. Sharing the Spirit

Thanksgiving is not just about celebrating within the walls of your home; it’s also a time to share with those in need. Consider organising a food drive or making a donation to a local charity to give back to the community during this season of giving.

 

Summary

While Thanksgiving may not be a traditional UK holiday, you can still embrace its spirit of gratitude, togetherness, and delicious food. Use this guide to create a memorable Thanksgiving celebration for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re an American expat missing the traditions of home or a UK resident looking to experience something new, Thanksgiving can be a wonderful occasion to celebrate and share with your nearest and dearest. So, this year, gather your friends and family, share a meal, express your gratitude, and make lasting memories in the true spirit of Thanksgiving – and don’t forget to add the Whoopie Pies! 

Image by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels

Thanksgiving: A Feast of Gratitude and Delicious Traditions

 

While Thanksgiving is not a holiday traditionally celebrated in the United Kingdom, it’s a beloved and deeply rooted tradition in the United States. Being a business based on the American tradition of Whoopie Pies, we think it’s fantastic to embrace other aspects of American culture – food, celebration, and traditions. We, like many Brits, didn’t know much about Thanksgiving, other than what we’ve seen in Friends! So, we decided to learn a bit more about it, and share it with Whoopie fans.

This special holiday is all about coming together with loved ones to express gratitude and appreciation for the bountiful harvest and the blessings of the year. Thanksgiving’s focal point is, of course, the delicious food shared around the table. Who doesn’t love an excuse to enjoy great food and the company of loved ones? In today’s post, we’ll explore the essence of Thanksgiving and how our delightful Whoopie Pies could fit right into this feast of thanks right here in the UK.

 

The Essence of Thanksgiving

 

Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States. It has its origins in the early 17th century when the Pilgrims, who had settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts, celebrated a successful harvest alongside Native Americans. The tradition evolved into a national holiday in 1863, thanks to President Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation during the Civil War.

What makes Thanksgiving so special is that it transcends any religious or cultural boundaries; it’s about the spirit of gratitude, togetherness, and sharing. Families and friends gather to express their thankfulness for the good things in life, whether it’s the love of family, good health, or a hearty meal on the table.

 

The Thanksgiving Feast

 

At the heart of Thanksgiving is a grand feast that showcases the rich diversity of American cuisine. Turkey is the undisputed star of the show, roasted to golden perfection and often served with mouthwatering stuffing, gravy, and cranberry sauce. But the meal doesn’t stop there. It includes an array of side dishes like mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, and more. And of course, there’s an assortment of pies for dessert, with pumpkin and pecan pies being popular choices.

 

Whoopie Pies: A Sweet Addition to Thanksgiving

 

Now, let’s talk about Whoopie Pies – the delectable treats that are gaining popularity in the UK, thanks to businesses like ours. Whoopie Pies are a classic American dessert with a soft, cake-like exterior and a creamy filling, sandwiched together to create a delightful handheld indulgence. While they may not be a traditional Thanksgiving dessert, Whoopie Pies can make a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

Here’s how you can incorporate Whoopie Pies into your Thanksgiving celebration:

1. Thanksgiving-Themed Whoopie Pies: Get creative with your Whoopie Pies by choosing ones with seasonal flavours. Pumpkin spice Whoopie Pies with cream cheese filling or pecan pie-flavoured Whoopie Pies can add a unique twist to your dessert table.
2. A Dessert Buffet: Create a dessert buffet featuring Whoopie Pies alongside classic Thanksgiving pies. This will allow your guests to enjoy a variety of sweet treats and discover the joy of Whoopie Pies.
3. Takeaway Treats: Send your guests home with a little extra gratitude by gifting them Whoopie Pies as parting favours. These handcrafted delights make for a sweet and thoughtful gesture.

 

Thanksgiving in Summary

Thanksgiving is a holiday that transcends borders, and its focus on gratitude and sharing resonates with people worldwide. While it may not be a traditional celebration in the UK, the spirit of Thanksgiving is something we can all embrace. And with the rising popularity of Whoopie Pies, our sweet delights can add a touch of American charm to your Thanksgiving feast. So, this year, as you gather with loved ones, give thanks, and indulge in delicious food, why not consider adding some Whoopie Pies to your menu to sweeten the celebration?