Running a small bakery is no small feat. Between perfecting your sourdough starter, whipping up cupcakes, and serving your loyal customers, it can be hard to find time for marketing. But if you’re looking to grow your bakery business, email marketing is one of the most affordable and effective tools you can use.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the best email marketing software for small bakeries. Whether you’re looking to send out your weekly specials, promote seasonal offers, or just remind people you exist (hello, fresh cinnamon rolls!), these tools can help you do it with ease.
Why Email Marketing is a Sweet Deal for Bakeries?
Before diving into the software, let’s talk about why email marketing works so well for small bakeries:
- Affordable: Many email tools offer free plans or low-cost options.
- Direct: Emails go straight to your customers’ inboxes.
- Personalized: You can tailor messages to different customer groups.
- Measurable: Track open rates, clicks, and sales easily.
- Automated: Set up campaigns that run on autopilot.
Whether you’re announcing a holiday menu or sending a thank-you discount to loyal customers, email is a great way to stay connected.
What to Look for in Email Marketing Software?
Not all email platforms are created equal. Here’s what to look for as a bakery owner:
- Ease of use: You don’t have time to fiddle with confusing software.
- Templates: Ready-made email designs save time.
- Automation: Send welcome emails, birthday wishes, and follow-ups automatically.
- Segmentation: Group your customers (e.g., cake lovers vs. bread fans).
- Analytics: Know what’s working and what needs tweaking.
- Integrations: Connect with your website, POS system, or social media.
Now let’s get to the good stuff – the best email marketing tools for your bakery.
1. Mailchimp
Best for: Beginners who want a bit of everything
Mailchimp is one of the most popular email marketing tools out there, and for good reason. It’s beginner-friendly and offers plenty of features, even on the free plan.
Top Features:
- Drag-and-drop email builder
- Pre-designed templates (great for promoting specials!)
- Basic automation (e.g., welcome emails)
- Audience segmentation
- Built-in analytics dashboard
Pros:
- Free for up to 500 subscribers
- User-friendly interface
- Lots of tutorials and guides
Cons:
- Some advanced features are locked behind paid plans
Why it’s great for bakeries: Mailchimp makes it easy to create beautiful emails to showcase your baked goods. Want to promote your weekly scone special or share photos of your latest cake? Mailchimp can help you do that in minutes.
>> Click here to visit Mailchimp website to learn more <<
2. Constant Contact
Best for: Local bakeries wanting strong support and event marketing
Constant Contact has been around for a while, and it’s known for its excellent customer support and reliable service.
Top Features:
- Easy-to-use editor
- Event marketing tools (perfect for baking classes or tastings)
- Social media integration
- Surveys and polls
- Real-time analytics
Pros:
- 60-day free trial
- Great customer support
- Good for hosting and promoting events
Cons:
- No free plan after the trial
- Slightly higher pricing than some others
Why it’s great for bakeries: If you host baking classes, tasting events, or seasonal pop-ups, Constant Contact makes it super easy to promote and manage them. Plus, their templates and tools make your emails look polished.
>> Click here to visit Constant Contact website to learn more <<
3. Flodesk
Best for: Stylish bakeries that want beautiful emails
Flodesk is relatively new, but it’s made a big splash, especially among creatives. It stands out with its modern, elegant email templates.
Top Features:
- Gorgeous, customizable templates
- Simple, intuitive interface
- Unlimited subscribers and emails
- Workflow automation
Pros:
- Flat pricing: one plan, all features
- Stunning email designs
- Great for visual brands
Cons:
- Fewer integrations than competitors
- Newer company (still growing features)
Why it’s great for bakeries: Your pastries are beautiful – your emails should be too. Flodesk makes it easy to send visually appealing messages that show off your cakes, breads, and cookies in style.
>> Click here to visit Flodesk website to learn more <<
4. MailerLite
Best for: Budget-conscious bakeries that want powerful features
MailerLite is affordable, but don’t let that fool you – it’s packed with functionality and perfect for small businesses.
Top Features:
- Drag-and-drop editor
- Landing page builder
- Automation and scheduling tools
- A/B testing and analytics
- Integrations with Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.
Pros:
- Generous free plan
- Clean, easy-to-use interface
- Scalable pricing as you grow
Cons:
- Fewer templates than others
- Some features require approval to unlock
Why it’s great for bakeries: MailerLite helps you do more with less. It’s ideal if you’re just getting started and want professional tools without a big budget.
>> Click here to visit MailerLite website to learn more <<
5. Kit (formerly ConvertKit)
Best for: Bakeries with an online presence or blog
Kit is a favorite among bloggers and creators, but it’s also great for bakeries with an online shop or newsletter.
Top Features:
- Easy email builder
- Subscriber tagging and segmentation
- Email sequences and automations
- E-commerce tools (sell products or classes directly)
Pros:
- Free for up to 1,000 subscribers
- Great for digital product sales
- Excellent automation features
Cons:
- Fewer design options for emails
- Slight learning curve for beginners
Why it’s great for bakeries: If you’re selling baking classes, recipes, or merch online, Kit is a fantastic tool to help you nurture and grow your audience.
>> Click here to visit Kit website to learn more <<
6. Brevo (formerly Sendinblue)
Best for: Bakeries looking for an all-in-one platform
Brevo isn’t just an email tool – it’s a full-on marketing platform. Great for bakeries that want more control over their communications.
Top Features:
- Email, SMS, and chat capabilities
- CRM and contact management
- Marketing automation
- Advanced segmentation
- Transactional emails (for order confirmations, etc.)
Pros:
- Free plan with up to 300 emails/day
- Multichannel marketing
- Great automation tools
Cons:
- Daily email limits on free plan
- Interface can be a bit complex
Why it’s great for bakeries: If you want to keep all your customer communications in one place – from newsletters to SMS order alerts – Brevo has you covered.
>> Click here to visit Brevo website to learn more <<
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?
The best email marketing software for your bakery really depends on your needs and style. Here’s a quick recap:
| TOOLS | BEST FOR | FREE PLAN AVAILABLE? |
|---|---|---|
| Mailchimp | All-around choice for beginners | Yes |
| Constant Contact | Event-driven bakeries with support needs | Trial Only (60-day free trial) |
| Flodesk | Beautiful, design-forward emails | No (Flat-rate pricing) |
| MailerLite | Budget-conscious, growing bakeries | Yes |
| Kit | Online stores, digital products | Yes |
| Brevo | Multichannel communications | Yes |
Still not sure?
Ask yourself:
- Do you need a free tool to get started?
- Do you care more about looks or functionality?
- Are you selling anything online or just promoting your shop locally?
Whatever your answers, there’s a tool on this list that can help you bake up some serious business.
Email Marketing Tips for Bakeries
Before you hit “send,” keep these tips in mind:
- Include mouth-watering photos: People eat with their eyes first.
- Offer exclusive deals: Give email subscribers early access or special discounts.
- Be consistent: Send emails regularly (weekly, biweekly, monthly).
- Add a personal touch: Share behind-the-scenes stories or introduce your staff.
- Make it easy to order: Include links to your menu or ordering page.
Wrap-Up: Bake Your Brand into Every Inbox
Email marketing might not be as sweet as your famous chocolate croissants, but it’s a powerful way to build relationships and boost your bakery business. With the right software, you can turn occasional customers into loyal fans who can’t wait to see what’s baking next.
So pick the tool that fits your flavor, start small, and grow from there. Happy baking – and emailing!
Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend tools and services we genuinely use and believe in. Thank you for supporting our content!