Baldwin County, AL-Based Bakery Responds to Autistic Individuals with Employment Opportunities & Community
Spanish Fort, Ala. (October 7, 2025) — Bake Blue, founded by Debra and Reed Pennington, is a new bakery concept with a clear purpose: to provide meaningful employment opportunities for adults with autism while delivering high-quality, nut-free baked goods to the community and area businesses.
What began as a mother and son, diagnosed with high-functioning autism, baking together has evolved into a mission-driven venture. The name Bake Blue reflects both autism awareness (blue) and the great blue heron, a symbol of resilience and independence that embodies the values guiding the business.
“Our vision goes far beyond the kitchen,” said Debra Pennington, co-founder of Bake Blue. “This is about showing what is possible when you give people a chance to use their gifts. Adults with disabilities have so much talent to offer, and we want to build a place where they can grow, contribute, and belong.” (Photo: Debra Pennington, Co-founder)
Bake Blue’s products include delicious cookies, cakes, and seasonal offerings — all fresh, homemade and nut-free for peace of mind without compromising quality or taste. Plans are underway to open a storefront in early 2026, expanding both product offerings and the ability to employ and train individuals with disabilities.
For many families, opportunities for young adults with autism and other disabilities remain limited. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 21% of adults with disabilities, including autism, are employed. Bake Blue is working to change that narrative by asking, What are you good at? How can you grow? The goal is to build a workplace where abilities are matched with meaningful roles and to provide a gathering place for families and individuals experiencing autism.
“I’ve dreamed a long time of owning a business and it’s coming true,” said Reed Pennington. “No matter how you are born or how disabled a person is, you have a purpose in life. Choose the right path and be who you are meant to be. I want anyone on the autism spectrum to know they can become a success no matter what.” (Photo: Reed Pennington, Co-founder)
The community and area businesses can support Bake Blue by placing orders, sharing the mission, and partnering in its growth. Each order helps move the bakery closer to its vision of creating sustainable employment opportunities and long-term impact.
For more information, visit bakebluebakery.com or call 251.482.9111.
About Bake Blue
Bake Blue, founded by Debra and Reed Pennington, is a Spanish Fort, Al-based bakery with a mission to create meaningful work and community for adults with disabilities. Inspired by Reed’s journey with autism, Bake Blue combines homemade, nut-free baked goods with a vision of empowerment and belonging. The bakery plans to open its first storefront in 2026. For more information, visit bakebluebakery.com or call 251.482.9111.