Els Bakes launches ‘Love Letter to Your Future Self’ experience

Els Bakes, founded by local entrepreneur Eleanor Broome, has launched its new initiative, “Send a love letter to your future self.” The idea was inspired by Eleanor’s own personal journey after she wrote a letter to herself one year ago, a letter she now describes as life-changing.

“I call it a love letter,” Eleanor explains. “Reading it back a year later was the most beautiful experience. It shifted my mindset, helped me see how far I’d come, and reminded me to be kinder to myself. When I shared it, so many people said how much they loved the idea and I knew I wanted to create a space for others to experience that feeling too.”

The experience, which costs £12, includes a hot drink and access to a carefully curated selection of beautiful writing papers, envelopes and decorative stickers. Once completed and sealed, letters are entrusted to the Els Bakes team, who promise to post them exactly one year later.

Whether it’s a manifestation of the life you hope to create, words of encouragement during a challenging season, or a reflective note to your younger self, the initiative is designed to promote self-love, hope and emotional wellbeing.

Since opening its Wollaston shop on March 22nd last year, Eleanor has created a special community. Known for her open and honest conversations around mental health, Eleanor uses her platform to advocate for greater awareness and to encourage others to talk openly about their struggles.

The bakery itself reflects that warmth and authenticity. Eleanor’s mum can often be found behind the scenes crafting the shop’s popular sausage rolls, while her dad features in light-hearted and engaging social media videos that have become a firm favourite with followers. The result is a space where customers feel less like visitors and more like friends.

In addition to the new letter-writing experience, Els Bakes continues to champion kindness through its growing Pay It Forward scheme.

The initiative was inspired by a homeless gentleman who once entered the shop with just 15p. Eleanor offered him a free coffee, a small act that sparked a much bigger idea. After researching ways to give back, she and her mum introduced a scheme where customers can purchase an item in advance for someone in need.

Visitors can pay forward a coffee, milkshake or bake, and anyone who may need a little support can simply take a ticket from the board and redeem it at the till, no questions asked.

“A little kindness goes a long way,” says Eleanor. “Looking after your mental health shouldn’t be a luxury. Everybody is fighting a battle we know nothing about, and if we can spread a bit of joy or positivity, we absolutely should.”

Now recognised with nominations for several local awards, including Best Cafe, Best Small Business and Best Food or Drink Producer Els Bakes is continuing to grow as a hub for connection, comfort and compassion in Northamptonshire.

The shop is also proudly dog-friendly, serving up popular “pup cups” so four-legged friends can enjoy a treat too.