Several months ago Renee Thomas, a stay-at-home mom of two, saw an opportunity for investment.

As a “sweet freak” (she said that) Thomas had been a regular customer at Lou’s Bakery. When Lou made plans to vacate, Thomas got all her ducks in a row and became a silent partner of Delicious Bakery, located on U.S. 31 South near the Camp Branch area.

Thomas realized the Alabaster area did not have a home-owned bakery. No competition — big opportunity.

If you want some of the biggest, best cinnamon rolls you have ever tasted, you had better call your order in Friday and be prepared to pick up early Saturday morning as they come out of the oven.

Petit fours, éclairs, Alabama, Auburn and seasonal cookies made on a sugar base, plus oatmeal, walnut, cranberry and chocolate chip cookies are usually available. There are pound cake loaves, pumpkin and cranberry loaves as well as lemon, cherry, apple, caramel and chocolate pies.

Remember old-fashioned pineapple upside down cake? They have it. Strawberry cake is one of their biggest sellers, along with Italian crème and a variety of cheesecake flavors. Icings available are butter cream, chocolate, peanut butter and cream cheese. Any special order can be made ahead of time any day of the week. Thomas said “If you can think it up, they can make it.”

A professional cake decorator is on duty. You can bring in a picture, hand drawing or computer print to help explain what you would like in a special order.

Customer service is phenomenal. You will be offered samples while you browse. Good PR makes you want to order everything. Last week they made a Houndstooth hat. There was also a beautiful three-tier wedding cake waiting for pickup.

Delicious Bakery is managed and operated by Fabian Pardo and his wife, Mary. Decorator Anna Ramirez and student trainee Alexandria Seda are vital to the successful business. Pardo and his family have always been in the food business.

They have resided in several different states and cities. Smiles and attitudes are friendly and the products truly are delicious. The display cases and work areas are immaculate.

Got a reunion, football party, birthday, anniversary, wedding, baby shower or just dessert for dinner? Well, give the Pardo family a try. You will not be disappointed.

Sandra Thames can be reached at bobthames1942@yahoo.com.