Sweet Resilience: The Story of Doug & Dolly’s Cookie Cottage

By Lauren Means | Photos Courtesy Doug and Dolly’s

In 2020, as the world grappled with a global pandemic, Doug Lacy and Marc Giguere found themselves facing a different kind of life change. Doug had just retired from a 34-year career with General Motors, while Marc, after 16 years of running a successful catering business and Italian restaurant, was in between jobs. They were both at a crossroads, searching for their next chapter. But what would eventually blossom into a successful cookie business was rooted in something much deeper than just a career change.

A Baker’s Beginning

Doug’s love for baking began long before Doug & Dolly’s Cookies came into existence. Raised in Detroit by his Southern mother, Estelle, Doug learned the art of baking at a young age. His mom, originally from Tennessee, passed down her baking wisdom through cakes, pies, and cookies that became staples at family gatherings and church events. Whether it was for a holiday or a birthday, Doug’s baked goods were always a hit.

Doug continued his passion throughout his life, even creating a stunning cake for his and Marc’s wedding. But it wasn’t until a personal challenge hit their marriage that Doug’s hobby would turn into a business.

A Journey of Recovery and Rediscovery

In 2023, Marc entered a 90-day recovery program at Eastpoint Recovery in Massachusetts, a pivotal moment for their relationship and Marc’s health. While Marc was away, Doug found comfort in baking. He experimented with hearty chocolate chip cookie recipes, intending to send them to Marc. However, life got busy, and those cookies never made it to the mail. When Marc returned in August 2023, the couple tasted the cookies together, and Marc was blown away.

As they shared these delicious treats with family and friends, the overwhelming response was clear – Doug’s cookies were something special. Encouraged by this feedback, Marc suggested turning Doug’s passion into a side hustle. By October 2023, Doug & Dolly’s Cookie Cottage made its debut at Connect’s HoliGAY Market at the Nashville Fairgrounds.

The reaction at the market was nothing short of spectacular. Their cookies were a hit, and before long, word of mouth spread. The success continued through local events like the Nashville Flea Market, Clarksville Downtown Market, and the Tennessee Craft Fair, where Doug’s cookies received rave reviews. It wasn’t long before people started asking if they would open a brick-and-mortar shop.

Doug & Dolly’s Cookies Is Coming Soon!

The answer to that question is now a resounding yes! Doug & Dolly’s Cookies is set to open its doors in November 2024 at Emery Commons in Hip Donelson, a popular shopping plaza home to other local favorites.

Doug & Dolly’s Cookies will offer a cozy space where customers can enjoy their classic favorites, such as the best-selling Outrageously Chunky Chocolate Chip cookie, along with a rotating menu of seasonal and specialty flavors. From Old Fashioned Peanut Butter to Double Fudge Cherry Cordial, and even gluten-friendly Amaretti Almond, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.

Plus, there will be refreshing beverages like milk and cold brew coffee, and customers can even cater events with these delicious cookies.

What’s in a Name?

The name Doug & Dolly’s Cookies is a tribute not just to Doug’s talent but also to their beloved mini Golden Doodle, Dolly. While the business initially sold all-natural dog treats alongside human cookies, they decided to focus on cookies for people at events. However, dog owners can rest assured that “Dolly’s Best Buddy Biscuits” will return once the shop opens.

Looking Ahead

With the grand opening of their bakery just around the corner, Doug and Marc are eager to expand their offerings while continuing to engage with the community through pop-up events and markets. You can still catch them at local favorites like the Nashville Flea Market, Tennessee Craft Fair and the Connect HoliGAY Market in the coming months.

Through the trials of personal struggle and the triumph of rediscovery, Doug & Dolly’s Cookies is more than just a business. It’s a tribute to strength, love, and the endless potential for new beginnings. Follow their journey and try one of Doug’s famous cookies—you won’t be disappointed.

For more details or to place an order, visit their website at www.douganddollys.com or follow them on social media.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sep 27-29: Nashville Flea Market, Nashville Fairgrounds
Oct 11-13: TN Craft Fair, Centennial Park, Nashville
Oct 17: Guest appearance, Talk of the Town, News Channel Five, Nashville
Oct 25-27: Nashville Flea Market, Nashville Fairgrounds
Nov 9: Connect HoliGAY Market, EXIT Real Estate Experts office, Old Hickory