PEARL — A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to help the owner of The Edible Paper Store & Co. in Pearl recover after a fire damaged the specialty baking supply shop and forced it to close indefinitely.
The store, located at 2901 Old Brandon Road, specializes in edible images, custom cake toppers and decorations for cakes, cupcakes and other baked goods. Owner Kat Reynolds said the fire damaged the building’s electrical system and wiring, requiring extensive repairs before the business can reopen.
According to a description on the fundraiser page, Reynolds runs much of the business herself, from designing custom edible images and toppers to managing daily operations. The fire destroyed or damaged several essential items she relies on to produce her products, prompting supporters to organize the online fundraiser to help replace equipment and supplies.
“Rebuilding is crucial not only for her business but also for the community,” the GoFundMe description states. “Every donation, big or small, helps her recover and continue to provide the sweet treats that bring joy to so many.”
Reynolds said in a social media update that while the storefront will remain closed during repairs, she plans to continue limited operations from home so customers can still order edible image printing and cake toppers.
“It could have been much worse,” Reynolds wrote, noting that most of the store’s inventory remained intact despite the fire.
Customers needing supplies are encouraged to contact the store by email or phone, and staff members will retrieve items from the shop once or twice daily while cleanup and repairs continue.
The business is also searching for a potential new location in the Pearl area while the current building undergoes repairs.
The Edible Paper Store & Co. is typically open six days a week and sells baking supplies ranging from food coloring and fondant to silicone molds, boxes and other decorating tools for home and professional bakers.
In her statement, Reynolds thanked the Pearl Fire Department, emergency medical personnel and the Pearl Police Department for their quick response to the fire.
“We are incredibly grateful for the work you do for our community,” she wrote.
Organizers say the fundraiser will help Reynolds replace critical equipment and continue serving local bakers as the shop works to recover.
