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Mums make 'nums' with kids nearby

With five young children between them, a home-based business seemed the only option for Innisfail entrepreneurs Megan Bridges and Nina Smit — until they decided to incorporate a child-care facility into their business premises.
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Megan Bridges makes a strawberry-centred wedding cake in her Nummies By Mummies shop in Innisfail Thursday.

With five young children between them, a home-based business seemed the only option for Innisfail entrepreneurs Megan Bridges and Nina Smit — until they decided to incorporate a child-care facility into their business premises.

The result is Nummies By Mummies, a deli and bakery in downtown Innisfail that boasts 100 square feet of playspace.

Open since March 1, the 5052 50th St. business grew out of Bridges and Smit’s custom cake operation, which they ran out of their busy homes.

“It was tough to get the kids occupied well enough that we could actually get stuff accomplished,” said Bridges.

The friends had also noted that there was a dearth of options for parents wanting to step out for a beverage or snack while tending to children.

“We got tired of trying to go places for coffee and having people look at us oddly.”

The solution presented itself in February, when the downtown premises became available.

Bridges and Smit adjusted the space for their café, including the playspace with a playhouse, construction bench, building blocks and other features.

“It was so we could bring our own kids to work with us as well,” said Bridges. “Not only do we save on childcare, but we also encourage other parents to bring their own kids.”

So far, the feedback has been good. Nummies By Mummies is even attracted parents from out of town, said Bridges.

“They really enjoy it.”

Smit has since stepped away from the business to devote more time to her family, but Bridges has staff members with children.

Nummies By Mummies is open for breakfast, lunch or snacks, with bagged lunches, kid-size meals and custom cakes.

It will even organize and host birthday parties.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays.

hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com