Blackbird Baking Co. | Custom Cookies

NEW NAME, SAME HEART (and a Bigger Vision!)

Blackbird Baking Company has officially become: MERLA!

Over the years, our work has expanded far beyond baking. From curated dessert and champagne experiences to our vintage Italian Apé, cannoli stations, and bespoke event activations, our name no longer reflects the full scope of what we create.

As our offerings evolved, so did the vision. Leaning into the Italian heritage of Birdie, our vintage Apé, and our love for European-inspired details, Merla felt like the perfect fit.

Merla means blackbird in Italian—a subtle nod to where we started, while fully embracing where we’re going.

This new name allows us the freedom to grow, create, and design experiences without limits—while staying rooted in the craftsmanship, creativity, and heart that built this brand from day one.

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Cookies Made to Celebrate

Custom Cookies · Vintage Italian Dessert Truck Rental · Decorating Classes · Branded Favors · Platters · Weddings · Events

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About Us

meet Joanna

Owner of Blackbird

Hi! I'm JoAnna, the face behind Blackbird Baking Co. Many people ask how I got into cookie decorating, so here is a little backstory. While on maternity leave from my second job as a Deputy Sheriff, I made some cookies for my daughters' first birthday party in Fall, 2016. I enjoyed decorating so much it became a hobby while I had some extended free time.

Fast forward to having my son on NYE, 2016 - I turned to cookie decorating to fuel some of my creative passion and keep me “sane” while at home with two babies on maternity leave. I spent several months working on my recipe and perfecting my decorating before I was asked to make some firefighter themed birthday cookies. With that, Blackbird Baking Co. was born.

In addition to cookie decorating, I’ve worked in Public Housing since 2008. I’m fortunate to be able to fit that work schedule into my week, leaving nights and the rest of my "free" days for cookie decorating.

I live in Pembroke with my husband and two kids. In my spare time, you can find me camping or at the beach. I love spending time outdoors with my kiddos whether it be on foot, on ATV’s or bikes.