Image courtesy of Dewey's Bakery
 
This year, the Easter holiday occurs on April 1, over two weeks earlier than it did in 2017. More than 80 percent of Americans will celebrate Easter in some form or another, according to the National Retail Federation. These individuals will spend plenty on one of the first major holidays of the spring season, with the potential to top last year’s record total of well over $18 billion in the U.S.

Bakeries have already begun preparation with products and specials being announced. One of the most popular bakery items this time of year is hot cross buns. These rolls have been an Easter season tradition dating back hundreds of years. They symbolize devotion and have a religious component in that they are marked with a cross made of icing.

Dewey’s Bakery in Winston-Salem, North Carolina announced the return of its popular hot cross buns earlier in February. It was a way to get a jump on the religious holiday for sure, but also added a delicious fruit-and-yeast aroma to its store that customers can’t resist. Although they are ideal for purchasing fresh in the store, Dewey’s also makes its hot cross buns available for shipping throughout the country.

Images courtesy of Vero Cakes (left) and Pamcakes (right)
 
Easter provides a great opportunity to get creative with cakes and other desserts. Bunnies are a popular subject for decorating, as the Easter Bunny is perhaps the most iconic non-religious image associated with the holiday. One unique idea that can add an artistic flair to your Easter cakes is to use a unicorn theme but apply it to the bunny. Unicorn cakes already feature pastels and cute animal imagery, which can easily be transitioned to Easter.

Aside from products, your bakery can also run promotions to get more customers in the door this season. Family-focused events such as Easter egg hunts, photos with an Easter Bunny, and Easter egg or Easter dessert decorating can provide an interactive and fun element to your business.

One of the most important preparations, as with any holiday or season, is to start with announcements as early as possible. You can post photos of colorful Easter desserts or special Easter baskets filled with cookies or other sweet treats from your bakery on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest to generate interest.