Eight years after opening Koala Kolache on Spring Cypress Road in 2017, owner Vatsana Souvannavong said closing her shop in July feels surreal.

“The lease, the chapter with Koala, the familiar routine of the last eight years, and even the identity of being a single, full-time mom are all changing,” she said in an email.

What we know

The path ahead she said will still involve her love for baking, except with a particular twist in the recipe and format—for a bigger purpose.

“An online bakery specializing in gluten-free, alternative-sugar baked mixes will be started,” Souvannavong said. “This comes from health struggles years ago, which highlighted the importance of wellness. This is about sharing a healthier way to enjoy baked goods.”

Owner Vatsana Souvannavong said she is going to continue sharing her passion for baking with customers through a new online venture. (Courtesy Koala Kolache)
Owner Vatsana Souvannavong said she is going to continue sharing her passion for baking with customers through a new online venture. (Courtesy Koala Kolache)

What's on the menu

While her new online bakery website, under the name Vatsie's bakery box, is still under construction, she said customers can expect the online launch to take place in September. Customers can expect to order bakery boxes filled with options including gluten-free baking mixes, cinnamon rolls, pizza crusts and of course, kolaches.

"The hope is that this new venture will connect with others and that the community will embrace this healthier approach to baked goods," Souvannavong said. "It's a leap of faith, but one taken with hope and the support of friends."