Dear Forno Friends and Fans,

I’m writing this with a vulnerable but hopeful heart. I will need to step away from the bakery for at least four weeks while I undergo surgery and recovery. During February 18th thru at least March 24th , the shop will be closed.

As a small, owner-operated business, being away for that long is a significant financial hit. There isn’t a large team or corporation behind the scenes — it’s just me, and the bakery we’ve built together. Four weeks without revenue impacts everything from rent and utilities to restarting inventory and other unexpected expenses when I return.

To be honest, I don’t know what state the bakery will be in when I’m ready to come back. The uncertainty is heavy. This place is more than a business to me — it represents resilience, community, and the love that grew from some of the hardest chapters of my life. The thought of losing it is incredibly hard.

If you feel inspired to lend your support during this time, I am humbly asking for donations to help keep the bakery afloat while I heal. Every contribution, no matter the size, will go directly toward covering fixed expenses and ensuring welcoming everyone back as soon as I’m back on my feet.

If you’re unable to give, sharing this message or keeping me in your thoughts means just as much.

Thank you for being part of this community and for supporting small businesses like mine. I look forward to baking for you again soon.

With gratitude,

Melissa Sepulveda