Mike and Mary Zis moved to Redfield almost a year ago. They were looking for “a quieter pace of life and a strong sense of community.” The Zises felt that this was the perfect place to start Lovebirds Bakery.
The first bake drop has been scheduled for Mar. 31st. Patrons can pre-order goodies from the micro-bakery’s site. Goodies will be picked up at the Zises’ home at given times. Mary Zis said “Our menu features a delicious selection of handcrafted bagels, donuts, pastries, breads, and cookies, all made from scratch and using high-quality ingredients.”
Once a batch of goodies sells out, it is unavailable until the next bake drop. Items are made fresh. Zis had a couple of weekend goodie suggestions. “Cookies are available
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for pick-up on Fri. and Sat. nights, perfect for weekend indulgence. Sat. mornings feature freshly baked cinnamon rolls and Portuguese malasadas, a delightful way to start the weekend.”
Zis explained that there are some hoops to jump through when opening a bakery. Efficiency is important. “We’ve completely revamped our enclosed front porch into a dedicated second kitchen are for Lovebirds Bakery. This space includes all the essential equipment we need, such as:
1. Convection oven for even baking
2. Proofer to ensure our dough rises perfectly

3. Professional mixer for consistent, high-quality doughs and batters
4. Baking racks for organizing our fresh bakes
5. Storage refrigerator/freezer to keep ingredients fresh
6. Butcher block table and workstations for prepping and decorating
7. Designated area for bakery boxes, bags, labels/stickers, and tissue paper; to keep everything organized.”
Zis stated that ingredients are carefully sourced. Some are purchased in bulk. “Food prices and ingredients are expensive, and when factoring in electricity, gas, packaging, and labor, we price our items accordingly.” she said. Zis added “What sets us apart from big box stores and grocery stores is that everything we make/bake is fresh, and made in small batches. We use high-quality ingredients, real butter, and handcrafted methods; no preservatives, and no pre-mixes. Every item is baked with care, ensuring our customers get something truly special.”
Mike and Mary Zis originate from the East Coast. Beyond that, Mike was born in Ukraine. The Zises have been wed for 22 years. “(We) have always shared a love for food, family, and creating special moments together.” Zis said. Mary worked in Human Resources for many years. Mike is newly retired. Zis added “Our family is incredibly important to us – we recently became grandparents, welcoming our sweet granddaughter, Nora, into the world.” The Zises have a little dog, Ellie. Traveling is another thing that they enjoy. They’ve been to 25 countries, and the Caribbean Sea. “Experiencing different cultures and cuisines has influenced our love of food and flavors.” she said. Zis added “We’re also big Disney fans, and we enjoy finding ways to add a little magic to everyday life.”
Traditionally, baking is something that one generation teaches to the next. The Zises had family connections. Mary Zis said “Baking has always been a big part of our lives. (My) mother and Mike’s grandmother were both incredible bakers who inspired our love for homemade, from-scratch baking. Their passion for creating delicious food with care and tradition is something we carry forward in every batch we bake.”
Baking goodies isn’t the only interest. “Mike has a deep passion for cooking, especially making incredible, authentic Ukrainian soups like borscht. He enjoys creating comforting, homemade meals, just like his grandmother used to make.” Zis said. They plan to grow vegetables to use in their cooking and baking.
When asked about her favorite goodies to make, Zis listed donuts, bagels, fresh bread, and cookies. She said “There’s something so rewarding about working with dough – shaping it, letting it rise, and watching it turn into something warm and delicious.”
Zis said that Lovebirds Bakery’s philosophy is simple. “Quality comes first – we take great care in how we prepare our baked goods, using high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Freshness is key – everything is baked to order, ensuring customers get the best possible experience. Unique flavors make the difference – our donuts feature rich, flavorful fillings like Dutch Chocolate, Maple Brown Sugar, and Lotus Cookie Butter Boston Cream; our bagels are paired with delicious schmears; and our cookies are inspired by the best big-city bakery favorites.”
Zis emphasized that Lovebirds Bakery doesn’t use preservatives. For this reason, it’s recommended that goodies are consumed right away. The Zises’ focus is on small batches made with quality ingredients. Pre-ordered limited batch baking can reduce waste.
Looking to the future, the Zises hope to become involved in the community. They’d also hope to cultivate a loyal customer base for the bakery. Zis elaborated: “Our goal is to create an experience where people can count on getting something special and made with care – not mass-produced, but thoughtfully prepared with attention to detail. We also hope to see our bakery become a trusted name in the community, a place where people look forward to our bake drops, knowing they’re getting something fresh, delicious, and made with passion.”
The menu could eventually be expanded based on what customers would like more of. Zis emphasized that they intend to remain focused on quality over quantity. She added “We also hope to inspire people to appreciate the value of real, homemade food – baked goods made with care, not preservatives. That’s the whole heart of why we do this – to give people the opportunity to enjoy baked goods the way they’re meant to be: fresh, flavorful, and crafted with love.”
Food can also have emotional ties. Zis said “Additionally, we want to foster a sense of nostalgia and comfort in what we bake, bringing people back to the taste of homemade treats from their childhood – something they can share with their own families. Whether it’s a warm cinnamon roll on a Saturday morning, a chewy, decadent cookie at the end of the day, or a perfectly fresh bagel with homemade schmear, we want Lovebirds Bakery to be part of the simply joys of life.”
“We can’t wait to share our fresh, small-batch baked goods with the community!” Zis said. She expressed appreciation for supporters of small home businesses. She invited everyone to give Lovebirds Bakery a try. “You can browse our menu and place your pre-orders and www.lovebirdsbakery.com. Stay updated on new bake drops and special offerings by following us on social media, or reaching out via email at lovebirds57469@gmail.com. Thank you for being part of our journey – we can’t wait to bake for you!”