With deep local roots and a loyal following, Sweet Valentine Bakery defines what it means to bake with purpose
| Nicholas Gingold/Craft Media Solutions
On the morning of February 14, 2026, Carson’s Sweet Valentine Bakery teemed with a group of 40 people dressed in festive Hawaiian clothing, exchanging hugs and laughter as they gathered around the groom, whose bride awaited in the back. Customers — some confused, some curious — seemed hesitant to intrude on the imminent wedding as they meandered through the South Bay bakery to pick up brown butter cookies, cinnamon rolls, and buttery frosted pound cake from glossy display cases. Donning a celebratory black-and-white kukui nut lei with a button-down aloha shirt and warm smile, owner Matthew Valentine flitted back and forth between the kitchen and the floor, reassuring the groom while helping customers…