Two Businesswomen Revolutionize Sweet Treats in Abingdon

Abingdon, Va. — A quaint town known for its historic charm has become even sweeter, thanks to two visionary women and their thriving dessert shop, Shaked!. Cassie Rowe and Kitzi Manuel, co-owners of this delightful dessert spot, have transformed an iconic location on Main Street into a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike. The shop, which opened its doors on May 1, 2023, offers a unique mix of bakes and couture milkshakes, drawing customers from far and wide.

Shaked! isn’t your typical dessert shop. The co-owners have masterfully combined their expertise from their respective retail businesses into a sweet haven. Rowe, who has been running the Abingdon Gifting Company for the past seven years, says they take pride in their couture milkshakes, which stand out due to their elaborate and imaginative designs.

“We call them couture milkshakes because the word means anything that’s designed,” Rowe explains. “We put a lot of effort into our designs — and lots of love.” The result? A loyal fanbase of sweet tooth enthusiasts who frequently travel from nearby cities like Kingsport, Tennessee, and Marion, Virginia, just to indulge in these extraordinary treats.

The timing for Shaked! couldn’t be better. With the Virginia Highlands Festival currently in full swing, the shop is buzzing with excitement. The festival, a treasured event for the community, brings in a surge of visitors. Rowe and Manuel are seizing this opportunity to introduce even more people to their decadent offerings. On August 3, they will also support the Clint Black concert happening at the Moonlite Theatre, giving them a chance to cater to the concert-goers with their delectable milkshakes.

Rowe, a 2010 graduate of Patrick Henry High School, and Manuel, who graduated from Holton High School in 2001, each had their dreams that beautifully intersected to create Shaked!. Rowe had long aspired to open a bakery, while Manuel envisioned owning an ice cream shop. Their partnership has proven to be a sweet success.

“I grew up in restaurants,” Manuel shares. “My parents owned and operated several restaurants. My mom was a baker who had a knack for desserts, just in general. Although baking is enjoyable, ice cream is just fun. We get excited to see people literally run to get their ice cream, especially the big shakes — the couture shakes. They just love those.”

Shaked!’s menu is as enticing as its concept. With inventive names like “Virginia is for Lovers” and “Campfire by the Creeper,” their shakes offer a tantalizing mix of ingredients, from cherries and chocolate to s’mores. Each shake is a carefully crafted masterpiece, both in flavor and presentation, making them perfect for an Instagram-worthy moment.

Since its inception last year, Shaked! has made a name for itself despite challenges such as limited parking. Its exclusive focus on sweet treats makes it a stand-alone operation on Main Street, and its reputation continues to grow. The owners’ passion and dedication shine through, attracting visitors who come solely for the unique experience Shaked! provides.

As the town of Abingdon enjoys the festive atmosphere brought on by the Virginia Highlands Festival, Shaked! stands ready to welcome both new and returning guests. The shop not only showcases the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of its owners but also contributes to the local community by promoting local events and festivals.

If you find yourself in Abingdon, a visit to Shaked! is a must. Cassie Rowe and Kitzi Manuel have crafted a delightful corner in this historic town where every shake is made with love and a touch of artistry. Their journey is a testament to what can happen when dreams collide and creativity flows, resulting in a venture that’s not just about satisfying a sweet craving but also about creating unforgettable memories for everyone who steps inside.