This story is sponsored by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.
What began as blueberry cobblers on a family farm has grown into a one-woman baking business known for its custom treats, unique desserts, and even catered lunches. Hanna Bailey, owner of Doozie Doez, has turned her lifelong passion for baking into a full-time career fueled by creativity, resilience, and a deep connection to her community.
Bailey’s journey started on her family’s blueberry farm in Utica, which they operated from 2001 to 2020. Before Kentucky offered home baker licenses, Bailey sold cobblers at the local farmers’ market under a produce license.
“I sold thousands of blueberry cobblers,” Bailey said. “That was my thing.”
In 2019, she obtained her home baker license and began baking cakes, cupcakes, and cookies for birthday parties and other events. Her favorite creation? Cheesecakes — though she noted they can be tricky, they’re a favorite for their elegance and flavor.
Wanting to expand into items not allowed under a home license, Bailey pursued a commercial license and now operates weekly out of Bittel Hall’s kitchen. That allows her to produce more complex items and offer catered options, all without opening a storefront.
“I don’t want a storefront,” Bailey said. “I like being able to do it on my own terms.”
Her business took on deeper meaning when her father was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2020. Baking became her outlet during that difficult time.
“It took the sadness away,” she said. “I had to do something for someone else and make them happy. It helped my mental health and brought me joy.”
After her father passed in 2023, Bailey leaned fully into her business. Now, she works to fulfill as many orders as possible and participates in events throughout the region.
In addition to custom cakes, cookies, and cupcakes, Bailey operates a bakery trailer for outdoor events like PorchFest and Apple Festival. She offers more than just sweets — her popular chicken salad lunches are a hit at local schools, and her signature blueberry lemonade is a fan favorite, a nod to her farming roots.
“I started going to farmers’ markets when I was 12,” she said. “My mom would drop me off at Owensboro Christian Church. I made so many friends and learned so much.”
Bailey also hopes to launch pop-up events this summer at local businesses on a rotating schedule.
Her business has created memorable moments, from weddings across Kentucky to a viral dessert burger debut during Owensboro’s Burger Week at Crazy Me Gifts & Apparel.
“I sold out in 19 minutes the first day, 5 minutes the second day, and still sold out fast when I doubled production,” Bailey said. “It was absolutely wild.”
Bailey, a 2012 graduate of Apollo High School, continues to operate Doozie Doez solo and said her favorite part is the relationships she’s built — both with fellow small business owners and with loyal customers who have supported her since the beginning.
“I’m not a spotlight gal,” she said. “But I love being part of something that brings people joy.”
Doozie Doez can be found on Instagram and Facebook, where Bailey posts updates and accepts custom orders.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.
Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or [email protected].
