Community Electric Cooperative is thrilled to launch a periodic feature highlighting small businesses in and near our service territory. In honor of National Women’s History Month, we’re kicking off this series with The Rusted Root, a woman-owned gem nestled in Windsor, Virginia.
The Rusted Root, owned and operated by Haley Powell, is more than just a café—it’s a hub for community connection, offering handcrafted lattes, fresh pastries, savory sandwiches, and even houseplants for sale. Haley’s passion for baking and creating a welcoming space is evident in every detail of her business.
A Passion Turned into Purpose
"I’ve always loved baking—it’s my happy place,” Haley shared during our interview. “It started as a way to relieve stress and evolved into something I wanted to share with others. Starting The Rusted Root felt like the perfect way to combine my love for baking and plants with my dream of owning a business.”
Since opening its doors on November 4, 2023, The Rusted Root has quickly become a beloved fixture in Windsor. From freshly made almond croissants and cinnamon rolls to their incredibly popular chicken salad, the café offers something truly unique to the area.
A Community Cornerstone
One of the things that sets The Rusted Root apart is its deep connection to the local community. Haley expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support she’s received: “Our customers are our foundation. Seeing familiar faces every day and knowing that we’re part of their routines—it’s the most rewarding feeling. I’ll never forget the line out the door on opening day and how overwhelmed I was with gratitude.”
Community Electric Cooperative’s Heather Wright couldn’t agree more. “We’re so excited to have The Rusted Root as part of our community,” Heather said. “Not only is their food and coffee delicious, but the warm, inviting atmosphere Haley has created makes it a place people want to come back to again and again. It’s businesses like hers that truly enrich our area.”
Giving Back and Growing Forward
Haley and her team also prioritize giving back to the community by donating to local events and supporting families in need. “Knowing that we can help others is one of the most rewarding parts of owning this business,” Haley noted.
Looking ahead, Haley envisions expanding The Rusted Root to include a small greenhouse for houseplants and introducing bagels by the dozen with flavored spreads. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “Make time for yourself. Owning a business can be all-consuming, but you have to prioritize self-care to make it sustainable. And don’t underestimate the power of social media—it’s been a game changer for us.”
A Theme Song for Success
When asked to pick a theme song for her business, Haley chose “You’re Gonna Go Far” by Noah Kahan. “It perfectly describes the feeling of having people from your hometown rooting for you,” she said.
Visit The Rusted Root
Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy latte, a freshly baked treat, or just a dose of inspiration, The Rusted Root is the place to be. Stop by and experience the warmth of Haley’s vision for yourself—you won’t be disappointed.
As Community Electric Cooperative celebrates the incredible small businesses that make our area special, we encourage everyone to support local businesses like The Rusted Root. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more connected community.
