Today we’d like to introduce you to JP Rivera.
Hi JP, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Our story with Groovy Duck Bakery started with a shared love for great food, community, and creating experiences that make people smile.
The bakery itself has been a Raleigh staple since 2012, but in 2022 my wife Laura and I took it over with the dream of bringing new life to it ,modernizing the space, improving quality, and building a brand that felt both fun and high-end. We remodeled everything from the recipes to the design, focusing on freshness, creativity, and consistency.
It wasn’t always easy , we jumped in during a challenging time for small businesses , but the support from our customers and local community kept us going. What started as a small local bakery quickly turned into something much bigger, with wholesale partners, custom orders, and now our upcoming second location in Apex.
At the heart of it, we just love what we do. Laura handles a lot of the creative and design side, while I focus on the growth. Together, we’ve built something we’re really proud of ,a bakery that not only serves great pastries but also creates a place where people feel good every time they walk in
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not always a smooth road, but definitely a rewarding one. Like many small businesses, we’ve faced our share of challenges , from the rising cost of materials and ingredients to managing labor and keeping up with demand.
There are always a lot of moving pieces coming together to create a great experience, from the kitchen to the front counter to the overall customer vibe. Balancing all of that while maintaining quality and consistency takes constant focus. But even with the bumps, every challenge has helped us grow stronger and more intentional about how we run the bakery.
We’ve been impressed with WIT BRANDS LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Groovy Duck Bakery is more than just a place to grab a treat; it’s a mix of creativity, community, and really good baking. We’re known for our signature chunky cookies, muffins, pretzel bars, custom cakes, and our decorated shortbread ducks that people can’t resist snapping photos of. Everything is made fresh, and we put a lot of care into making every item look as good as it tastes.
My background is in international business and real estate development, so I’ve always loved building things, whether it’s properties or brands. When my wife Laura and I took over Groovy Duck, we wanted to turn it into something that felt both modern and fun, with an atmosphere that makes people feel good the moment they walk in.
What sets us apart is our attention to every little detail, from the recipes and packaging to the customer experience and store design. We want Groovy Duck to feel like more than a bakery; it’s a space that brings people together over something simple and joyful, great food made with care.
We’re proud of how far the brand has come and even more excited for what’s ahead with our new Apex location. For us, it’s all about creating something lasting, a local bakery that people truly connect with.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
The best advice we can give is to never give up and do whatever it takes. Starting a business comes with challenges you can’t always predict, but persistence makes all the difference. There will be long days, unexpected costs, and moments of doubt, but if you stay focused on your vision and keep moving forward, you’ll always find a way through.
I also wish we knew how important it is to build the right team early on. Surrounding yourself with people who share your work ethic and values can completely change the outcome. It’s not just about the product or service, it’s about the people who help you bring it to life every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.groovyduckbakery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/groovyduckbakery
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groovyduckbakery/
- Other: https://share.google/po2X9P8hqeis0UBgG
