Our Story

I (Rebecca) grew up in upstate NY with my family of 10 siblings and my parents. Yes, that is right, there were 13 in my family. Growing up in a tight knit family created many bonds with many of my siblings.

My sister, Laura Joy Bean Cowles, was one of my best friends and always will be. Laura and I would spend many of our times together baking, laughing, dreaming and making memories in the kitchen. It was our dream to open a bakery and sandwich cafe together one day.

In October 2006, my sister Laura passed away after spending several brave years battling Breast Cancer. She was an amazing person who never stopped living her life as if it was over. Her tenacity, humor, patience, kindness and most of all, her love for God and family has forever impacted my life. LJ Beaners Bakery and Café is a labor of love for my sister. We hope to give back just a little bit of who she was to all of you. LJ Beaners Bakery and Caf&eacute is honored to be a part of this community and hopes to give back to y'all in many ways. So, please, grab a cup of coffee, a delicious baked good or a fresh sandwich and let's get to know each other. To my dear Laura Joy, who I feel is an angel over our right shoulder everyday, "Thank you" and "We've opened that bakery".