Career changes are usually just pivots as we learn and grow. But sometimes a fresh start in an entirely new direction is needed. For 13 years, Phoebe Martinson baked up tasty treats and great conversation at Phoebe’s Pastry Café, a beloved community social spot. Now, she and her family are looking for someone to take over the shop by the end of July 2025, otherwise it will close as she turns her focus to health and fitness coaching.
Putting sugar back on the shelf, Martinson has shifted to coaching in the health and fitness community. She has written a book and is coaching women nationwide on lifestyle changes through her company Phoebe Gets Fit.
From Foodie to Fitness, Phoebe Martinson’s Career Echoes Her Health Journey and Triumphs
Martinson has been a foodie from day one. She attended culinary and pastry schooling in Seattle at 17 years old and over the years has worked in restaurants, hotels and grocery store bakeries across Washington, Oregon and California.
Locally, she and husband Dan were both culinary arts instructors. Phoebe taught at New Market Skills Center for 15 years while Dan taught at South Puget Sound Community College for 25 years.
But the dream of opening her own business started early. “I used to play restaurant and feed the neighbor kids when I was young,” says Martinson. “I even made menu boards for them to choose from. Food has always been my lane. It was the plan when we moved back to Olympia to open a shop. I grew up here, and left right after graduation. But we realized teaching would be a better option while raising our two sons so waited until our youngest was a senior in high school to open.”
Phoebe’s Pastry Café Became a Regional Favorite and the World Noticed
Over the past 13 years, Phoebe’s Pastry Café not only built a fan following, it became a vital part of many local traditions. “What I realize now is how deeply imbedded in people’s memories we have become,” she says. “Food really brings people together in good times and sad times.”
One customer even told her in grateful tears that Phoebe’s bread pudding was the only thing her dying mother would eat and the family was more than happy to oblige. Another recently sent Martinson 11 years’ worth of birthday photos of her daughter and each year’s amazing, hand-crafted cake from the Café.
“I have done the wedding cake, baby shower cake (or cakes!) and then the child’s birthday cakes, plus holidays and gatherings for the same families,” she recalls. “We have literally been invited into people’s lives through our food and service.”
Martinson has also competed on the Food Network and had her work featured regionally. But a lifetime in the food industry took its toll and necessitated a weight loss journey that jumpstarted phase two of her life.
A Self-Proclaimed Obesity Survivor, Martinson Now Dedicates Herself to Fitness and Lifestyle
Four years ago, Martinson realized she needed to make major lifestyle changes. She lost 150 pounds and now dedicates her time to empowering others to achieve their fitness goals through coaching and empowerment.
“I describe it like this,” says Martinson. “Would a recovering alcoholic keep their bar? No. I am an obesity survivor working in sugar so it’s time to take the next step in transforming my life and I know I can help more people if I am not working in the shop full time.”
Her business provides one-on-one accountability for others seeking to reach fitness milestones. “Embarking on this journey requires immense courage and determination, and I wholeheartedly admire anyone committed to making positive changes,” Martinson explains. “Each small step you take is a significant stride toward a healthier and happier you. I’ll share the principles that guided my journey, but my focus isn’t on licensed advice. Let’s address doubts, self-sabotage and pain for emotional freedom and wellness. I’ll be your partner, reflecting your blind spots, excuses, successes and growth. Think of me as your mirror on the path to health.”
Phoebe’s Pastry Café For Sale
At the end of the day, says Martinson, success in both businesses comes down to a few simple ideas. “A good business is built through consistency and relationships, just like a great life is,” she says. “Be kind, offer excellent customer service – along with delicious food if you take over the Café – and this community will be forever grateful.”
She and husband Dan acknowledge that this is a bittersweet change but are also grateful to their customers over the years. “We’re both feeling very appreciated and loved serving this community through both our teaching careers and the Pastry Café,” shares Martinson. “Thank you to all our customers and staff, past and present.”
Martinson says that anyone interested in keeping the Pastry Café open should contact her quickly as the shop’s lease is up in July. Email phoebe@phoebespastrycafe.com with inquiries or questions and follow the shop on Facebook for updates and timelines.
To learn more about her fitness company, check out their website or Instagram profile for tips and tricks to get—and stay—healthy no matter what life throws your way. To learn more about services or sign up, email phoebegetsfit24@gmail.com or register online.
