News Summary

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bailey Nichols and her daughter Alexis created Wafel-Bitte, a flourishing Belgian waffle business in Huntsville, Alabama. Their journey began with a passion for authentic Belgian Liege waffles, which has since expanded to include various offerings. The duo’s entrepreneurship not only provides a delicious product but also demonstrates resilience and contributes positively to the local economy. As they aim to grow their brand, they are committed to delivering a taste of Belgium to customers across the nation.

Huntsville, Alabama: Mother-Daughter Duo Launches Successful Belgian Waffle Business Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

In March 2020, amidst the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bailey Nichols and her daughter Alexis embarked on a journey that would transform their love for Belgian waffles into a thriving business. The duo recognized an opportunity to create a joyful product during the isolating lockdown, leading to the birth of Wafel-Bitte, which translates to “Waffle Please.” Their authentic Belgian Liege waffles, inspired by their experiences in Europe, quickly captured the taste buds of local customers.

Bailey and Alexis began their venture by experimenting with various recipes to perfect their version of the iconic Belgian waffle. Their culinary creations gained popularity among friends and family, encouraging them to make their passion official. By September 2020, the mother-daughter team launched their business at local farmers’ markets, bringing homemade Belgian street food to the heart of Alabama.

Business Foundation and Growth

To establish Wafel-Bitte solidly, Bailey and Alexis navigated the necessary legal steps to secure business licenses, permits, and a tax identification number. Bailey’s background as a U.S. Air Force veteran and her previous entrepreneurship with Gemini Investigations provided her with the skills needed to manage a new business. She emphasized the importance of teaching Alexis essential business skills, especially as Alexis plans to pursue her own career in the Air Force.

Their hard work bore fruit when Wafel-Bitte obtained a food manufacturer license in September 2022. This milestone allowed them to expand their product line to include waffle mixes, with a gluten-free option also available. By 2023, the startup evolved further by launching an online store and securing sales on Amazon. As a result of these efforts, their scrumptious waffles became available in several states, including Nebraska, Florida, Arkansas, and Ohio.

Locally, Wafel-Bitte products can be found in various businesses such as High Point Market in Decatur and Lux Bru in Madison. The growing demand for their products reflects a successful blend of unique flavor and business acumen.

Current Operations and Future Aspirations

Today, Alexis is stationed in Germany with the U.S. Air Force but remains integral to the business, contributing her marketing skills remotely. Meanwhile, Bailey has retired from her government service, allowing her to fully dedicate her time to Wafel-Bitte. The mother-daughter duo is passionate about expanding their brand and aims to make their Belgian waffles a household name across the U.S.

Bailey expressed her deep gratitude towards their loyal customers and shares a vision of delivering the authentic taste of Belgium to kitchens across the nation. Information regarding Wafel-Bitte’s diverse product offerings can be accessed through their website, where customers can place orders directly.

Community and Economic Impact

Wafel-Bitte exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that flourished even amidst challenging circumstances. The business not only provides a delicious product to its customers but also contributes to the local economy. By participating in farmers’ markets and collaborating with other local businesses, Bailey and Alexis help promote the community’s food culture while highlighting their love for Belgian cuisine.

Conclusion

From a simple idea during a pandemic lockdown to a successful business model, Bailey and Alexis’s story is one of resilience, family bonding, and entrepreneurship. As Wafel-Bitte continues to grow and expand its reach, the duo remains committed to honoring their roots in Belgian gastronomy and satisfying customers nationwide with their unique Belgian Liege waffles.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

New Businesses Opening in Huntsville Area Include Cafés, a Sandwich Shop, and a Healthcare Facility

Additional Resources

• Huntsville Business Journal
• Wikipedia: Waffle
• King 5 News
• Google Search: Belgian waffles
• Cap Times
• Google News: mom and daughter waffle business
• LoHud
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Pancake
• Bham Now
• Google Scholar: Wafel-Bitte
• Madison Mom
• Google Search: local business impact on economy

Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER

The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.