Lakewood is home to a variety of local businesses, including Gingham Market. Gingham Market was established in July 2022 and is owned and operated by chef Ruth Kostadinov, who appreciates the Lakewood community and its small business environment.

Kostadinov is well known for her intense passion for culinary art and hospitality, stemming from her family’s history. Her first job was being a prep cook at her uncle’s restaurant. With this experience, she learned the care and dedication required to feed others. From a young age, she developed a love and appreciation for food as a way to bring people together.

Hero Kate, a high school student, tried Gingham Market for the first time and shared her thoughts. “My experience at the Gingham Market was great. I appreciated the cashier’s patience and kindness, as it was my first time there. I also found the layout of the store very pleasing as its organization made finding items easy. The overall environment was friendly and welcoming,” Kate said.

During Kostadinov’s culinary journey, she developed the concept for a market that would offer convenient grab-and-go meals to meet the needs of the local community. Though Gingham Market may appear small at first glance, it provides an impressive variety of products.

Shoppers can find pantry staples, local honey, sauces, chocolates, baked goods, fresh products, wine, beer, and curated gift baskets. The market places a strong emphasis on locally sourced specialty items, such as 5Fludd’s, Akron honey, and Mitchell’s chocolates, to showcase regional flavors and craftsmanship.

In addition to retail items, the market is well known for its offer of gourmet grab-and-go options. The menu features daily soups, sandwiches, quiches, and breakfast burritos, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet satisfying breakfast or light lunch.

Finding this success required navigating multiple career shifts. “My path wasn’t a straight line. I spent about 12 years working in the corporate advertising world, gaining experience that ultimately shaped how I think about branding, community, and storytelling. But over time, I felt pulled back to the kitchen — to the creativity, connection, and joy that comes from preparing food for others,” Kostadinov said.

A few years ago, she rediscovered her culinary spark through recreational cooking classes. “I began taking recreational cooking classes, which quickly reignited that spark. That curiosity turned into teaching, catering, and eventually building Gatherings Kitchen. The market grew naturally from there — as a place that reflects everything I value: thoughtful food, shared experiences, and a sense of community.”

Kostadinov’s decision to transition into the kitchen solidified her ideals as a chef during the six years she spent at the Loretta Paganini School of Cooking. The students that she taught were under her discipline, and she then found her footing as an educator. Kostadinov realized her love for cooking alongside her peers.

Her team supports her passionately and provides hands-on support in their interactive cooking classes and market, creating a community where they share culinary knowledge, source unique ingredients, and offer chef-quality products, helping her expand her vision for delicious food and the customer experience.

Manager Emily Woolf helps organize resources and oversee daily operations. “It’s truly an honor. Gingham is a special place — one that feels increasingly rare. We know our customers by name, we know their pets’ names, and we’re part of their big life moments. We care deeply about what we do and work hard to create not just great food, but a warm, welcoming experience every time someone walks through the door,” Woolf said.

The team’s relationships bring a positive atmosphere that brightens and lights up Gingham Market — even during challenging times. “When we’re working, we’re constantly moving — even when we’re not customer-facing. Behind the scenes, that looks like managing inventory, answering emails, coordinating catering orders, returning customer calls, making schedules, updating the website, and planning customer-facing emails and offerings. The list truly never stops, but it’s all part of keeping everything running smoothly and thoughtfully,” said Woolf.

As Gingham Market continues to grow and shine, many customers will come and go, their faces reflecting satisfaction with the atmosphere, products, and ideas Gingham Market brings to the Lakewood community.