BATTER: Breakthrough Business of the Year
A Sweet Success Story Led by Abi Caswell
Abi Caswell, the visionary owner of BATTER, has crafted a true sweets empire with her charming bakery. Steeped in pink and brimming with delightful confections, BATTER is more than just a bakery; it’s an apothecary of sugar, joy, and baked perfection.
Abi’s journey into the world of desserts began at the Hammond Farmers & Artisans Market, where her treats sold out by the end of each market day. This success led her to open BATTER in 2022, a bakery nestled on Cypress Street, where the sweet aroma of cinnamon rolls fills the air, guiding you straight to her door. Abi’s passion for her craft and her entrepreneurial spirit have also expanded BATTER’s reach with a second location in New Orleans, spreading love and deliciousness from the Northshore to the South.
Her remarkable success hasn’t gone unnoticed. Abi was recently honored with the Breakthrough Business of the Year award from the Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce, becoming the first-ever recipient. The award reflects not only her hard work but also the immense love and support she’s received from the local community. At BATTER, customers come and go with large boxes of baked goods in hand, celebrating birthdays, first dates, and countless other milestones. As the Downtown Development District (DDD), we’ve witnessed these joyful moments firsthand, and it's clear that BATTER is a beloved business in our town.
When asked how she felt upon receiving the Breakthrough Business Award, Abi expressed immense pride. She credited her dedicated team, acknowledging that while it’s not always easy, the hard work is undoubtedly worth it. Abi’s creative spirit and passion for mentoring young people keeps her motivated, and she takes great pride in the environment she’s created at BATTER.
Through the tough days, Abi finds strength in her supportive husband, who often reminds her of the bigger picture: they’ve overcome tougher challenges before. As a solution-oriented leader, Abi collaborates with her team to tackle problems head-on, and while she admits that sometimes you just need to "cry it out," the results speak for themselves.
Beyond the local recognition, Abi is also proud of BATTER’s growing national reach. With orders shipped to all 50 states, the bakery continues to build a loyal customer base across the country. Looking ahead, Abi’s vision for BATTER is to continue expanding the business while inspiring others to support local, small-owned businesses. She wants to raise awareness of the many good things that come from shopping locally, from fostering community connections to supporting the dreams of small business owners.
When asked about her favorite menu items, Abi gave a simple and heartfelt answer: “Chocolate chip cookies.” And when it comes to downtown Hammond, she cherishes the town’s small-town charm, picturesque aesthetic and walkability.
For Abi, BATTER isn’t just about delectable desserts; it’s about delivering a handcrafted, personalized customer experience. Every aspect of BATTER, from the baked goods to the packaging, is infused with pride and care. When you support a small business like BATTER, you’re not just buying a treat—you’re supporting a dream.
