CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Chandler’s Bakery, a family-owned Charlottesville bakery that opened in 1992, announced that it will close “in the coming weeks,” in an emotional social media post Wednesday, citing the rising costs of doing business.

“This bakery has been more than a business to us,” the shop’s Facebook post read. “It has been our life’s work, our privilege and our greatest joy.”

Three generations of Chandlers crafted cakes, cookies, pies, pastries and breads at the bakery’s Rio Hill Shopping Center location. The Chandlers’ post thanked the customers who frequented the bakery over the past three decades, expressing gratitude for those who made the bakery part of their daily routine and those who turned to the bakers to celebrate major life milestones, including birthdays, weddings and graduations.

“You have supported us through the good times and the hard times,” the post said. “You cheered for us, forgave us when we made mistakes, and showed up for us in ways we will never forget. You are the reason we’ve been able to do what we love for nearly three-and-a-half decades. We are endlessly grateful.”

The post said the decision to close was not an easy one, calling it “heartbreaking.”

“The continued rise in the cost of ingredients, rent, payroll and so much more has made it increasingly difficult for a small, family-run business like ours to keep our doors open,” the post said. “After countless prayers, sleepless nights, and difficult conversations, we have come to the heartbreaking reality that it is time to close this chapter.”