Baker/Owner: Sandy McPherson

Washashore Bakery has become a must-visit in Mashpee Commons since it opened in 2016. After traveling and studying abroad, spending time learning and working at bakeries across the country, owner Sandy McPherson decided it was time to bring her love of baking back to the Cape, and so Washashore was born. Tired of working for other people, opening up her own business was the natural, logical solution. “I just wanted to make what I wanted to make and put the love into that… keep it simple, make it taste good,” says McPherson. 

A staple in the Commons, Washashore Bakery draws customers into the cozy shop with welcoming faces and mouthwatering goodies. As for the name, McPherson says it came about during a road trip with friends and just stuck. She says, “It really resonates with people when they come in or it makes them ask questions, like where are you from, how did you come up with the name—it’s like a little conversation starter.” Homemade signs and decorations adorn the walls. McPherson says the chalkboard pointing out the lack of cookies outside and abundance of cookies inside compels many passersby to check out the shop.

While perfect for walking in and satisfying any sweet tooth, McPherson and co. can also work with you to create the perfect treat for an event or special day. “We like to work with customers; if there’s something they’re looking for, we try to accommodate them as much as possible and do specialized cakes,” McPherson explains. As for seasonal changes, McPherson says the lull in business during the winter months allows for experimentation with new recipes and new products.

“There’s just something about the simplicity of the butter and the sugar. … it’s just a satisfying product to make.”

Washashore’s most popular sweets include chocolate chip cookies, Sandbars (shortbread, toffee and chocolate squares), cakes, and cinnamon buns. McPherson focuses on simple things done well. “I like the simplicity of a classic cookie that just reminds people of their childhood. We get that a lot—people come in and tell us, ‘Oh, this smells like the bakery I used to go to growing up,’” she says. For McPherson, the best part of owning her own bakery is seeing smiling customers.