Nichole Atkins
2024 Business Person of the Year

Nichole Atkins, who owns and operates Fireside Bakes and Brews, received the Rotary Business Person of the Year Award from the Fayette Rotary Club at the club’s meeting on May 22.

Firesides Bakes and Brews is a flourishing coffee store and local gathering place in Fayette. Nichole’s menu features freshly baked scones, muffins, and cinnamon rolls as well as espresso, mochas, and cold brew. The shop also serves Lotus Energy, a plant-based energy drink, plus chai, and smoothies.

Nichole has recently opened another location in New Franklin which will, in time, allow her to add lunch items to their growing menu.

Nichole, who grew up in rural Armstrong, has a culinary background and was once a school food service director. She completed her associate degree in culinary arts at Iowa Western and earned a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management at Ashford University.

When speaking about Fayette, Nichole notes how well her business has been received and how she has, in a very short time, fallen in love with Fayette and her customers.

Nichole is not only a business owner but also a resident of Fayette. She and her husband, Ryan, who teaches math at Fayette High School, are active members of the Fayette community and are proud owners of three loving dogs.

The Rotary Business Person of the Year Award was established in 1984 to recognize a local business professional who exemplifies Rotary’s values and who is making a lasting contribution to the well-being of our community.

Shown in the picture with Nichole is Jamie Page..