A delightful collaboration with local micro-business Mak’s Snack Shack

In a sweet and scrumptious development, Medicine Creek Enterprise Corporation (MCEC) has teamed up with local micro-business Mak’s Snack Shack, a bakery and catering company, to add a delicious twist to Camas Coffee House’s offerings.

MCEC’s flagship coffee shop is now serving a selection of pastries and other baked goods sourced from Mak’s, all baked with care by owner Makayla Roberson, 24, bringing an irresistible bakery experience to add a little something sweet to coffee breaks at Camas.

This partnership between Camas Coffee House and Mak’s Snack Shack isn’t just about a treat to pair with your coffee; it’s about community, collaboration, and flavor.

“We are beyond excited to partner Camas Coffee House with Mak’s Snack Shack,” said MCEC Deputy Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Hines. “As a Tribal enterprise, we know the value of promoting our local BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) businesses for all of us to reach larger markets. Mak’s has a terrific reputation in the region, and their pastries are phenomenal. As we are the preeminent coffee purveyors in our area, this partnership was destined to be a success. By supporting each other, we ensure the continued growth and success of Tribal and BIPOC businesses.”

Roberson, who recently turned her hand at entrepreneurship, embarked on her journey of professional baking right before the COVID-19 shutdowns. Her passion for the craft blossomed as she shared one of her creations with friends and colleagues on social media, whose support ultimately led to the birth of her business.

“We are beyond excited to partner Camas Coffee House with Mak’s Snack Shack. As a Tribal enterprise, we know the value of promoting our local BIPOC businesses for all of us to reach larger markets. Mak’s has a terrific reputation in the region, and their pastries are phenomenal. As we are the preeminent coffee purveyors in our area, this partnership was destined to be a success. By supporting each other, we ensure the continued growth and success of Tribal and BIPOC businesses.”

Jennifer Hines, MCEC Deputy Chief Executive Officer

Initially known for her custom cakes, Makayla’s business soon expanded to catering for prominent organizations like Pierce College and the North Thurston School District. She also became an active member of the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, which played a pivotal role in connecting her with MCEC.

Camas Coffee House discovered Makayla’s delectable treats at the South Sound BIPOC Expo, where she connected with MCEC Director of Business Development Tony Liberal and Inventory Control Manager Steven Bryant.

“Steven approached me, saying MCEC was looking for a supplier for Camas Coffee Shop, and asked if I was interested,” Roberson said. “We set up a time to test some of my samples, and it was pretty much the same day that I received news that Camas would like to feature my products. It was awesome.”

Roberson said she was already acquainted with many of MCEC’s accomplishments due to her position on the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees, a post she shares with MCEC Chief Executive Officer Bob Iyall. So, when Bryant approached her, she was thrilled to explore the opportunity to work with one of our enterprises.

“It’s honestly an honor to be asked to supply Camas Coffee House. The Tribe is an extremely important thing to me, specifically. I used to live on the Reservation when I was younger, and I have a lot of friends that are native and consider myself somewhat familiar with Nisqually’s culture. I don’t take lightly the opportunity to partner with MCEC.”

Makayla Roberson, Owner of Mak’s Snack Shack

Mak’s Snack Shack specializes in a wide array of baked goods, including cake pops, muffins, cookies, croissants, and a range of other pastries. With a focus on catering and supplying goods to larger-scale coffee chains and local grocery stores, Makayla’s baking venture has been met with growing success and enthusiasm.

What’s particularly special about this partnership is the pride that Makayla takes in collaborating with an enterprise owned by the Nisqually Indian Tribe.

“I think it’s a major accomplishment,” she said. “It’s honestly an honor to be asked to supply Camas Coffee House. The Tribe is an extremely important thing to me, specifically. I used to live on the Reservation when I was younger, and I have a lot of friends that are native and consider myself somewhat familiar with Nisqually’s culture. I don’t take lightly the opportunity to partner with MCEC.”

Makayla’s commitment to her community goes beyond her mouthwatering pastries. She teaches cake decorating classes and is dedicated to giving back. One of her upcoming projects is to teach basic cooking classes to residents of a local tiny home community, guiding them through their transition from homelessness.

For those eager to indulge in Makayla’s creations, you can find Mak’s Snack Shack pastries at Camas Coffee House, Café Elite, Ralph’s and Bayview Thriftway, and many other locations. Stay connected with both Camas Coffee House and Mak’s Snack Shack on Facebook and Instagram. You can reach Camas Coffee House at 360-634-3325, and Mak’s Snack Shack at 971-517-0818.

This partnership not only promises delicious pastries but also embodies the essence of community support and entrepreneurship that MCEC and its collaborators continue to champion. As you sip your coffee and savor a treat from Mak’s Snack Shack at Camas Coffee House, you’re not just indulging in flavors; you’re partaking in a beautiful story of collaboration, innovation, and the love of local businesses.