Many people have concerns about the ingredients in the treats they give their pets. With a plethora of recalls, one business owner decided to take matters into her own hands. Stephanie Riffey, owner of The Barkery, has taken this need to the next level by creating handmade, healthy and environmentally friendly treats for pets.
Riffey, who attended Kirkwood Community College later in life, described her path as one of trial and discovery. “I never knew what I wanted to do. I had a variety of jobs and I knew what I didn’t like, but not what I loved. After trying Criminal Justice and realizing it wasn’t for me, I turned to Health Information Technology at Kirkwood,” said Riffey.
Riffey said she went on to earn her degree in Health Information Technology and a diploma in Medical Billing and Coding, driven by her desire to help others but in a way that suited her strengths.
“I couldn’t be a nurse, but I knew the medical field needed help behind the scenes,” she said. Kirkwood played a pivotal role, as she secured her first job just days before graduating. However, despite thriving in the field, she said her passion for pets and natural products took her in a new direction.
Riffey’s venture into the pet bakery world started with her own dogs. Concerned about the safety of commercial pet treats, she began making her own. “There are so many recalls on pet food, and I didn’t know what to trust anymore. So, I started making treats for my dogs, and they loved them,” she explained.
What began as a hobby grew into something much larger. “I always knew I wanted to own my own business, I just didn’t know what it would be,” she said.
The positive feedback from pet owners solidified her decision to create a pet bakery, focusing on natural, healthy ingredients.
Although her current business is quite different from her original field, Riffey acknowledged how her education played an essential role. “Some of the classes I took at Kirkwood, like Introduction to Computers, have been really helpful. I design all our labels myself, and the computer skills I gained have been invaluable for that,” she added.
She also noted that the discipline and organization she learned through her studies translated well into running a business, especially when it comes to managing finances and reports.
Riffey began by selling her treats at local farmers markets and was a guest vendor at NewBo Market on the weekends. After gaining experience and seeing a positive response, she felt ready to take a more permanent space. “My husband used to sell vegetables at markets, but after a few back surgeries, he couldn’t continue. So, he retired from that and joined me in the bakery,” she said.
Riffey emphasized that the community of small businesses in the NewBo and Czech Village areas made it the perfect place to set up shop. “It’s a small business hub. Everyone supports each other, and it’s a great environment for growing a business,” she said.
The Barkery has already outgrown its current space and Riffey said she has her eye on potential new locations. “There’s a little fire station across the street that I’ve always loved,” she shared. While expansion plans are on the horizon, she acknowledges that finding the right space at the right time is key. “When the time is right, it will fall into place,” she elaborated.
Riffey’s advice to students, especially those unsure of their future, is simple: Education is important. “Even if the knowledge you gain doesn’t directly align with your career, it helps you grow. My degree from Kirkwood helped me get my first job, and even though I’m now in a different field, it was a steppingstone to where I am today.”
She emphasized the value of commitment and perseverance as well. “Having that degree shows you’re committed to something, and that will help you, no matter where life takes you,” said Riffey.
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