06/15/2026
"Leaven House opened in January this year, and immediately became a local favourite.
Owner Samantha Gardner says it has been a dream of hers to open a bakery and café for a long time.
“I had always been passionate about making yummy things for people. I'd say that food is my love language. I started doing cakes on the side for friends and family a few years ago. The opportunity presented itself in a time that was a bit transitional for me.”
Gardner and her family had just moved to Waterdown from Toronto. She says a career in human resources for a cosmetic company “had taken a positive turn, though I felt uncertain if it was what I wanted to do long-term. I saw a lease sign in the window of this perfect little house. From there things sort of just aligned perfectly and I took the jump.”
Gardner says Waterdown is unique in that, while growing, it has managed to hold on to its small-town charm.
“And it's almost like living in a Hallmark movie. My family also has another business, Ridgeway Florist, here in town so we get to work close by and stay connected.”
Leaven House is a true family business.
Gardner’s mother is an artist and her work is showcased and sold from the café’s walls. Her sister, who now operates the flower shop since their mother has semi-retired, provides beautiful arrangements that are also for sale."
➡️ Read the rest of my latest article in Hamilton City Magazine:
https://hamiltoncitymagazine.ca/leaven-house-has-risen-in-waterdown-village/
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📍297 Dundas St.E. Waterdown
