Raeford’s first indie bookstore is set to open in spring 2027. Kayla Lowery, owner of Kayla Renee Cakes at 122 N. Main St. in Raeford, will occupy the adjacent upstairs and downstairs units in the new year, utilizing the space for an expanded kitchen, additional storage space, a bookstore and a lounge.
Lowery began operations in her current locations almost a year ago, and within four months she said she'd doubled her customer base and her number of employees. As business continued to progress, Lowery realized she needed more space. When the space next door became available to lease, she began to make a plan.
“I am an avid reader; always have been…It’s always so cozy to see people walk into a bakery or a cafe and they’re sitting there reading a book. I just love the thought of that. I love the thought of somebody coming into our space and finding downtime for themselves,” shared Lowery.
The Parlour is envisioned as a cozy, community-centered bookstore with a vintage, Jane Austen-inspired feel. Guests will be able to browse books, book-themed merchandise and gifts, or relax in the upstairs lounge, which Lowery plans to outfit with vintage chairs and a fireplace. The space is also intended to host book clubs, other community events and accommodate private parties. Families can look forward to a dedicated children’s corner, with designated storytime events for the little ones.
Lowery is excited to renovate and breathe new life into the building that has stood for over a century.
“The renovation is quite tedious with these old buildings…The only thing that will be original is, hopefully, the windows upstairs and the original hardwood floor upstairs. I love old buildings, so it's been really cool to see what we can save,” shared Lowery.
The expanded kitchen and additional storage and office space will also help Lowery fulfill her plan to open a second location in Moore County over the next couple of years, with the original space serving as a baking headquarters for the business.
The Parlour will open at 120 N. Main St. in 2027. Follow Kayla Renee Cakes on Facebook for additional updates as construction progresses and to be the first to know when the opening date is announced.
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