Our Story
Where the fun (and the batter) began.
For more than 40 years, Steve Hamilton has been the driving force behind Chris Cakes in Kansas, building a beloved brand known for its fast, fun, and unforgettable flapjack events. Founded in 1969 by Loren Christianson in Pocahontas, Iowa, Chris Cakes began as a lighthearted but bold idea—serving up pancakes with speed, skill, and a smile. As Loren faced the final chapter of his life, he entrusted the future of his creation to Steve Hamilton. In 1984, Steve brought Chris Cakes to Louisburg, Kansas and over the following decades, he turned a part-time pancake side hustle into a full-fledged business and began building the legacy Loren had imagined.
He quickly outgrew being a solo operator, hiring and training a team that allowed Chris Cakes KC to serve more customers and spread more joy across the region. By 1990, he had built a thriving operation with a full crew of skilled pancake flippers and a packed calendar of events— mostly across the Midwest, but with pancake events stretching all over the United States. Over the years, Chris Cakes has even served pancakes to Presidents, Senators, and other well-known public figures. From fundraisers, corporate breakfasts, college move-in days serving 3,000 students, to intimate wedding dinners of 100 guests, Steve has always aimed to say “yes” to events big and small.
Even now, Steve continues to flip pancakes at events and is proud of how far the company has come. He often says, “It’s just a pancake!”—a reminder to stay grounded, focus on what matters and have fun! As someone who never put himself above his team and always led by example, he knows firsthand that success is never easy—but for the right kind of person, building a business like this is worth every ounce of effort.
Steve will continue to provide mentorship to ensure and guide the future of Chris Cakes. He’s especially proud to see his daughters continue the legacy; with Amanda Shore taking ownership of Chris Cakes KC, continuing the catering tradition from Louisburg, KS, while his daughter Crystal Buckingham focuses on expanding the franchise (link to franchise opportunities) side of the business, guiding new franchisees and shaping Chris Cakes’ future growth.
In 2006 and again in 2009, Steve was officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the Fastest Flapjack Flipper in the World. In 2016, he passed the spatula (and the challenge) to his daughter Erica Price, who claimed the title and kept the record in the family. A respected figure in the community, Steve’s presence has shaped not only the company but also the culture that surrounds it. Steve is also a proud dad of five and grandfather of six. When he’s not flipping flapjacks, he’s likely enjoying the outdoors or quality time with his family.
Looking ahead, Steve is confident that Chris Cakes’ future is in great hands with his daughters, Amanda Shore and Crystal Buckingham, at the helm, ready to take the franchise to new and exciting places. He often reflects that Loren would be proud to see how far the vision has come—and where it’s headed next.
Meet The Chris Cakes’ Team