Why Messy Aprons in Strongsville Is the Ultimate Cheesecake Lover's Paradise
STRONGSVILLE, OH - A visit to Messy Aprons in Strongsville today offered a glimpse into the thriving business founded by Melissa Simon, who turned her grandmother’s cherished cheesecake recipe into a beloved local enterprise. Located at 14300 Pearl Rd, Strongsville, Ohio, Messy Aprons has been a community favorite since its establishment in 2012.
The story behind Messy Aprons is rooted in family tradition. Melissa Simon started baking her grandmother's cheesecake as a way to feel closer to her after she passed away. What began as a personal endeavor soon blossomed into a business, with Simon experimenting with different sizes and flavors. The introduction of cheesecake minis marked a turning point, leading to a rapid expansion through word of mouth. “We were meeting customers in parking lots, gas stations, side of the roads, and many other crazy places to deliver our cheesecakes. My customers nicknamed me the cheesecake dealer,” Simon recalled.
The growth of Messy Aprons was so rapid that Simon had to make a significant decision about her career. She realized that if she was to keep up with demand and open a commercial kitchen, she would need to either reduce her hours at her full-time job or retire. Simon chose the latter, fully dedicating herself to the business.
Messy Aprons is known for offering 15 mini cheesecake flavors each week, alongside other specialty items such as cheesecake cups, slices, dips, and custom whole cheesecakes. The business caters to a diverse clientele, customizing dessert tables for weddings, private events, showers, graduations, and corporate gifts. "Our mission is to provide the very freshest and best-tasting cheesecake," Simon emphasized.
Despite challenges such as rising energy costs, inflation, and the complexities of hiring, Simon has steered Messy Aprons toward continued success. The bakery was recognized by Cleveland Magazine as having the best cheesecake in Cleveland in its first year and placed in the top three at Dessert Wars. Messy Aprons will be competing in the National Championship in Charlotte this October.
Looking ahead, Simon expressed her vision of opening multiple locations. While recent trends have seen new bakeries emerging in the area, Messy Aprons continues to stand out by specializing solely in cheesecake. The business also maintains a strong connection with the local community, working with local schools and charities.
To stay updated with Messy Aprons, follow them on social media. You can find them on Instagram and Facebook under the handle @messyaprons, where they regularly share updates, new flavors, and special events. For more details or to place an order, visit their website at www.messyaprons.com.