BY DIANE SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — A taste of Sugar Momma’s Sweet Shop is a taste of heaven.

Owner Val Bowen and her staff whip up wedding cakes, specialty cakes for any occasion, pies, cheesecakes, and a wide variety of specialty macarons, pastries, cookies and donuts in Sugar Momma’s.

Customers passing by can’t resist the heavenly smells drifting from within the shop that is nestled in a niche on Main Street in Inez.

Bowen has been baking for over 30 years, initially working from home and establishing herself as one of the top cake décorateurs in the region. On July 27, 2017, she opened Sugar Momma’s Sweet Shop after a vision that God gave her.

“About a month before opening the shop, I had a vision,” Bowen said. “I knew I had to do this. Linda Booth called me the next day and told me of the exact same dream she had. We both were like, ‘Oh my gosh, it has to happen then. We both dreamed it.’ I know people think I’m crazy when I tell that story, but it’s all true.”

Nearly five years later, business is booming.

Customers far and near come to Inez to satisfy their sweet tooth on Sugar Momma’s Sweet Shop baked goods. Local daily favorites include warm donuts or frappes just out of the oven with freshly brewed coffee. Some folks prefer specialty cupcakes or candies.

Bowen prides herself and her shop on Sugar Momma’s season-themed desserts, especially for holidays.

She was happy to announce that her shop will soon offer both hand-scooped and soft-serve ice cream.

Bowen was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in September 2022 and had to step back and rely on her staff to fill in. One in particular, Melissa Horn, was up to the task of managing the shop in Bowen’s absence.

“Melissa has been such a blessing to me and the business and I appreciate her so much,” said Bowen.

The owner also credits her bakers for their exceptional talent and dedication.

Call ahead for your delicious dessert at 606-298-5030 or stop by at 62 West Main Street in Inez (beside Shufflin’ Café) for the sweetest treat in town.