Every name has a story, a reason, and a sentiment behind it. For CiderHouse Pie Shop, the name is a blend of nostalgia, creativity, and a dash of romance, evoking memories that are as warm and comforting as the pies that fill its shelves. The journey to this perfect name began with the love story of Debbie Wentzel and her husband, Holger.

A Slice of Nostalgia

Debbie Wentzel’s passion for baking has always been tied to the comfort of home and the joy of creating something special. When Debbie first started baking apple pies, she discovered a secret ingredient that would become a hallmark of her recipes—a splash of apple cider. Not only did the cider enhance the flavor of the apples, but it also added a unique twist to the traditional recipe, giving the pies a subtle yet distinct taste that set them apart.

For Debbie, the association between apple pie and cider was almost instinctual. When you think of a warm, homemade apple pie, the thought of sipping on a glass of chilled, crisp apple cider isn’t far behind. The two go hand in hand, like the perfect pairing of flavors. As she experimented with her recipes, the idea that the name of her future pie shop should reflect this connection began to take root in her mind. It was a way to honor the secret ingredient that made her pies so special.

A Honeymoon in Wales

But the name CiderHouse isn’t just about the ingredients. It carries with it a deeply personal story—a cherished memory from Debbie and Holger’s early days of marriage. The couple tied the knot on May 5th, 2012, and soon after, they embarked on a honeymoon to Wales, a country known for its rolling hills, historic castles, and quaint countryside cottages.

During their stay, they lodged in several charming cottages, each with its own character and story. However, one cottage stood out among the rest—a little haven nestled in the heart of the Welsh countryside, called CiderHouse.

The CiderHouse cottage was more than just a place to rest; it was a sanctuary where Debbie and Holger created memories that would last a lifetime. The cozy interiors, the crackling fireplace, and the serene surroundings created an atmosphere of warmth and love. The name of this cottage, "CiderHouse," etched itself into their hearts, symbolizing a time of joy, adventure, and togetherness.

When it came time to name her pie shop, Debbie couldn’t help but think back to that special time. The name "CiderHouse" became a tribute to their honeymoon, a way to bring a piece of those cherished moments back to life in the everyday hustle of running a business. It was a name that carried not just the essence of the ingredients used in the pies but also the essence of love, adventure, and the warmth of a home away from home.

The Branding Choice: A Name with Purpose

The decision to merge "Cider" and "House" into one word was deliberate and thoughtful. In the Welsh cottage, the name "Cider House" had been written with a capital C and H, all as one word—CiderHouse. This stylistic choice made an impression on Debbie and Holger. It was unique, it was memorable, and it felt right.

Incorporating this into the brand of the pie shop was a way to maintain that unique charm. By bringing the words together as "CiderHouse," it created a cohesive, distinct identity that stood out in a crowded marketplace. It wasn’t just about following a trend; it was about creating a brand that was true to Debbie’s story, experiences, and values.

More Than Just a Name

CiderHouse Pie Shop isn’t just a place to buy pies; it’s a place where every slice tells a story. The name itself is a reflection of the journey that led to its creation—a journey filled with delicious ingredients, heartfelt memories, and the joy of building something from the ground up. When customers walk through the doors of CiderHouse, they aren’t just getting a pie; they are getting a piece of Debbie and Holger’s history, a taste of tradition, and a warm reminder of the simple pleasures in life.

In every bite of a CiderHouse pie, you can taste the blend of flavors, the love that went into the recipe, and the story behind the name. It’s more than just a pie shop; it’s a celebration of the little things that make life sweet.