VIDEO: For the Love of Butter

A video featuring local spot The Able Baker was a finalist in a national video contest featuring local businesses that make an impact in their communities.

Maplewood filmmaker Catherine Stratton, who made the piece, is a big fan of the bakery. "When I heard about the contest, Able Baker immediately came to mind," said Stratton. She approached owner Julie Pauly, who was very enthusiastic about the idea. 

The contest, called 'This is Retail,' was sponsored by the National Retail Federation, the world's largest retail trade association. Stratton specializes in making films that tell short stories designed to engage an audience right away, which is critical in short form films. Her goal was to tell The Able Baker's story in a way that brought viewers into the atmosphere and essence of the place. 

We think you'll agree that she succeeded in that goal. The two-minute video encapsulates the things that make a small, local business shine.  It even makes starting work before sunrise seem (almost) appealing!

The video did not win the grand prize but the filmmaker and subject were still thrilled that it was a finalist.

Stratton makes films for a variety of clients including nonprofits and small businesses, such as Etsy.com and the nonprofit, Artfully Unforgotten. To see more of her gorgeous work, visit her website at www.catherinestratton.com or email her at cathstratton@gmail.com.