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Oklahoma's Choice Weekly Volume 1 Issue 45 Celebrating Women in Business
The Bear Claw Bakery & Café
By Misty Crouse
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Laura Teckemeyer
Owner of The Bear Claw Bakery & Café
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Laura Teckemeyer brings to Pawnee the diverse experience of her travels from both serving in the US Navy and living abroad. She has been influenced by the different cultures and foods of the European countries, and has worked to adapt these items to the local tastes. Laura will soon be focusing on more products with the “Made in Oklahoma” label.
When it came time to return home to the States, Oklahoma was calling. Laura and her husband John found the perfect building to house John’s stained-glass shop. The Building was originally built by the International Order of Odd Fellows in 1910. Since the building was already separated with a kitchen, Laura seized the opportunity to turn her love of different coffees and lattes into a quaint café where she also serves up another of her favorite, pastries.
When you step into the door you are hit with the delightful smell of coffee and baked goods. This Beautifully remodeled building is a mix of original charm and new comforts. Located in the heart of Pawnee, a block from the Courthouse, makes it the perfect location for a bakery & coffee shop. Laura also joked she was a YouTube certified baker. With help from her staff and husband John the Bear Claw is fully stocked with tasty treats, lattes, specialty coffees and teas.
When we discussed Women in Business Laura had wonderful advice for other women. She explained how important keeping up with your accounting paperwork is and that this will save time in the long run. I asked what qualities women need in business and Laura said be confident in your business and yourself. She explained you have to have the determination to keep going and work through any possible setbacks. Laura’s best advice for new businesses is to start with a plan, write it all down even if it is just an outline. Having a plan will ensure you have worked out what you really want, and will keep you on track to achieve your goals. When I asked how she managed to balance a successful business and a life, she laughed and told me “wine”. Watching her work, you can see it all comes naturally to her now. Laura also explained the importance of joining your local Chamber of Commerce and the necessity of supporting your community.
Laura explained the bear claw isn’t like other eating establishments, no fried food, everything is baked. While this can be confusing because most people think “Diner” when they hear “Café”, it doesn’t seem to stop the customers from flowing in. During the short time I was there customers were enjoying sandwiches on croissants and
taking home large cookies, quiches, and muffins. Laura says her favorite part of her business is meeting people, not just from Pawnee but those who come to visit Pawnee Bill’s museum or to camp at the lake or go hunting. “I like when people make yummy sounds after the first sip of coffee or the first bite of quiche.”
Laura’s determination and grit may come from the Navy, but it has made her an Oklahoman through and through. Knowing what she wanted her business to be and creating it out of thin air. Pawnee is lucky to have her and the Bear Claw breathing life into their downtown.
Bear Claw Bakery & Café
618 Harrison Street • Pawnee, OK 74058 • (918) 762-5099Tuesday-Friday 6am-2pm Saturday 7am-2pm
1023 North Broadway On Route 66 • Davenport, OK 918-377-2230Tues-Fri 11am-9pm • Sat 7am-9pm • Sun 7am-4pm Tammy Warden, Proprietor
Mycha Rose
Mycha’s Corner
My name is Mycha and I am twelve years old. I love to read, draw and create activities for other kids like me. Join me each month as I create a free downloadable activity for you to enjoy either by yourself or with your family.
www.oklahomaschoiceweekly.com/Mycha’s Corner
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