Gratitude Bakeshop pulls plug on Wilmette plans

A bakery planned for Ridge Road in Wilmette is no longer happening, business owner Justin “JJ” Holmes told The Record.

Holmes’ Gratitude Bakeshop was originally set to open at 418 Ridge sometime in 2026, but in a social media post on May 25, he wrote he was frustrated and heartbroken “that some things don’t turn out like they should.”

“I’m here, drenched in frustration and heartache to let people know that gratitude bakeshop will not be opening,” Holmes’ post says. “I can not begin to thank the many friends and family who helped me come close to this dream. But there are dreams that cannot be and there are storms we can not weather. I have a reservoir full of gratitude to all that showed encouragement, love and support to me.”

Holmes said discussions with the building’s ownership reached an impasse and he declined to share further details.

Reached by telephone, the property’s owner, Emily Hamil-Atia, declined to comment on Gratitude or the future of the building.

As previously reported by The Record, Gratitude Bakeshop was a project Holmes, of Evanston, had envisioned for approximately 10 years.

Gratitude was set to be part of a revival of south Ridge Road in Wilmette. And neighboring new businesses Vibe Fitness and June’s Children’s Shop opened earlier this year.

The Record is a nonprofit, nonpartisan community newsroom that relies on reader support to fuel its independent local journalism.

Become a member of The Record to fund responsible news coverage for your community.

Already a member? You can make a tax-deductible donation at any time.