Marie Vera has long dreamt of owning a bakery, a passion inspired by her grandmother and uncle during her childhood in Puerto Rico. Growing up, she baked alongside her grandmother, who owned a shop. Vera later attended Instituto de Banca y Comercio (now National University College) and earned a degree in culinary arts. For years, she showcased her baking skills at parties and events.
After moving to Lebanon, Vera began participating in local vendor shows. “First, it was a dream,” Vera said. “Someone asked why we couldn’t open a bakery in Lebanon.”
In February, Vera, her husband Jose Gonzalez, and their daughter Alondra Nogueras turned that dream into reality by opening Sweet Details by Marie at 45 S. 8th St. in Lebanon. They express gratitude for the support from family and friends in establishing the bakery.
The once-barren space near the Lebanon Farmers Market has been transformed into a welcoming bakery with dining tables, chairs, and a counter displaying daily sweet treats. Sweet Details by Marie operates Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“It’s not hard at all,” Nogueras said. “I really enjoy my time with my mom. It’s our time—six days a week, nine hours a day. We make a good team.”
Vera and Nogueras handle the daily operations, with Vera focusing on baking. Gonzalez assists on weekends, running errands and shopping for groceries.
Vera left Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria in 2017. Although their home remained mostly intact, the surrounding area was devastated, with no electricity, running water, and long lines for gasoline. Nogueras was working and studying to become a paramedic, and Gonzalez was already in the United States, leaving Vera alone most of the time. She eventually joined her husband in Lebanon, and a year later, Nogueras followed.
Since opening, the bakery has attracted regular customers, who often stop to chat. Nogueras describes these interactions as therapeutic. Recently, they have seen an increase in daily customers.
Their most popular items include quesitos, tres leches, and mallorca, a sweet bread topped with powdered sugar. Additionally, their Nutella frappe is a customer favorite.