Our Story

Everything we build starts with how things are made.

Our story begins in 1932 with a small-town bakery in Ladysmith, later stewarded by Kate and Geoff Cram. What started as a single community hub has grown into a collective of businesses grounded in one belief: that quality comes from how things are made.

Our bakery grew out of cooking and baking with family. Cold Front was shaped by time spent travelling through Italy and learning to respect restraint and tradition. Wild Poppy came from a desire to make simple, nourishing, gluten-free food more accessible.

Our Values

The foundation of everything we do, from how we craft our work to how we support our team and show up in our community.

Craft Without Shortcuts

We believe in learning the process, respecting it, and doing things properly. Whether baking, cooking, or building teams, we don’t skip steps, because that’s how lasting quality is made.

Integrity Over Image

We don’t inflate prices, aesthetics, or ideas to look cooler or more exclusive. Every decision is grounded in fairness, quality, and what genuinely serves our community.

A Place For All

We create warm, welcoming spaces where people from all walks of life can belong, learn, and thrive. Everyone is met with respect and care.

Growth Through Mentorship

We grow by investing in people. By supporting learning, leadership, and long-term development, we ensure the care we put into our work is felt by the community we serve.

Our Shops

Our spaces feel familiar the moment you walk in—the smell of fresh baking, cream and vanilla, warm lunches and coffee creating comfort and nostalgia.
Our Shops

Rooted in Community

We build and support our community through consistent effort, care, and commitment.
Open to everyone, always.

An inclusive space for all, supporting the LGBTQ+ community through meaningful local partnerships.

Give back in ways that matter.

Supporting our community through food, donations, and local partnerships, like the Ladysmith Food Bank, LaFF, and Mid-Isle Soccer Club.

We bring  people together.

From the Cinnamon Bun Challenge to holiday traditions like gingerbread installations and cookie decorating workshops, we create experiences year-round.

Rooted in local partnerships.

We work closely with Vancouver Island producers, sourcing local ingredients and showcasing locally made goods.

Dedicated to education and craft.

Supporting growth through apprenticeships and hands-on training, passing down knowledge to the next generation.

Interested in collaborating with us?
Get in touch

Open Positions

Be part of a welcoming team where you can learn, grow, and hone your craft—shaped by mentorship and a culture of learning.

Barista/Server | 25–35 hours/week

Wild Poppy Market
 |
Ladysmith, BC

We are seeking a full time server/barista to complete our team. The ideal candidate will excel at working in a fast-paced environment, enjoy being part of a like-minded team, and have a passion for food, coffee and customer service.

Duties

  • Greet and serve customers in a counter service format
  • Prepare and serve a variety of coffee, tea and specialty beverages
  • Provide exceptional customer service by taking orders and addressing customer inquiries
  • Operate cash registers and handle transactions accurately
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment
  • Assist in stocking and replenishing inventory as needed
  • Follow food safety standards and procedures

Qualifications

  • Strong time management skills to handle peak hours effectively
  • Excellent customer service skills to engage with patrons in a friendly manner
  • Knowledge of food safety guidelines for proper handling of consumables
  • Experience in cashiering, food service, or related roles is a plus
  • Familiarity with POS systems is advantageous
  • Willingness to learn and help out in various tasks related to food handling

Compensation

Pay $19.50 per hour

4 days a week, must be available Saturdays.

‍

Part Time Server

Old Town Bakery
 |
Ladysmith, BC

DUTIES INCLUDE

  • Greet and serve customers in a counter service format
  • Prepare and serve a variety of coffee, tea and specialty beverages
  • Provide exceptional customer service by taking orders and addressing customer inquiries
  • Operate cash registers and handle transactions accurately
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment
  • Assist in stocking and replenishing inventory as needed
  • Follow food safety standards and procedures
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure efficient service

‍REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE

  • Strong time management skills to handle peak hours effectively
  • Excellent customer service skills to engage with patrons in a friendly manner
  • Knowledge of food safety guidelines for proper handling of consumables
  • Experience in cashiering, food service, or related roles is a plus
  • Familiarity with POS systems is advantageous
  • Willingness to learn and help out in various tasks related to food handling
  • Must be available Saturdays.