Gigi’s Cupcakes will open a brand-new location at 1925 Gunbarrel Road 109-E. The company will host a grand opening party on Saturday, Feb. 8, with 20 percent of proceeds benefiting a local charity and will also be featuring their Valentine’s Day collection of treats.
New owners include Dooley Swafford, a local who is very active in the community, and Jamar Israel (Fletcher), a former NFL football player were drawn to the business because of its dedication to giving back to the people it serves. Mr. Israel played cornerback in the National Football League
for eight years and was a two-time All American in college. Although running a bakery is a change for the football star, he said he is excited for this new chapter in his life and is looking forward to all the opportunities it will bring.
“I've always been interested in the food and beverage industry and I had a few franchises in mind," said Mr. Israel. "Dooley and I were discussing the industry and he brought up Gigi's Cupcakes and told me all about their history in Chattanooga, as it was one of the first locations that opened. The more I researched, the clearer it became that this is what I was supposed to do. Plus, I just love sweets!”
Gigi’s Cupcakes was recently acquired by a group of seasoned restaurateurs and is under new ownership with a vision to continue to expand the brand. With 70 Gigi’s Cupcakes locations operating nationwide, the opening in Chattanooga is a new venture with many more to follow. The cupcake company announced a a multi-year collaboration with Jason Smith, winner of three popular baking and cooking competitions on one of the nation’s top food channels.. As the Chief Confectionary Officer and Culinary Advisor, Mr. Smith will serve as a member of the Gigi’s Cupcakes team and will be involved in the R&D process.