In 2017 I found out I had Celiac Sprue disease (a genetic autoimmune disease where the body cannot process gluten, to put it simply). 1+% of the world population has Celiac whether they realize it or not. For anyone who receives this diagnosis, it's life changing if they want to heal themselves and stay healthy. All of a sudden, you can't just eat all your favorite breads, pastas, desserts, etc. You can't just go out to your favorite fast food chains, restaurants, hangouts, etc. Whether it be family or friends, the people who care for your well-being can only imagine the stress it can cause because they know it affects your health. Like any true allergy, cross-contamination can have serious side effects.
It’s amazing how far gluten free and allergy conscious foods have come! You can usually find something out there that will meet your wants or needs. However, I felt compelled to go one step further. Being a cook’s daughter and having amazing adoptive grandparents, I grew up being able to experience the world through the arts, detailed beauty around, and creative/elaborate foods. I craved for the finer enjoyments in food and taste. In the past three years, my passion for creative baking has progressed from sharing my goodies with family and friends into a business. I believe that food should not only look good, but taste great. While there will always be differences in gluten vs gluten free foods, I think I have brought delight and delicious to my gluten free baking and mixes that anyone can enjoy!
Frequently asked questions...
1. Do you only bake gluten free and allergy friendly items?
Yes. My business is dedicated to providing gluten free and allergy friendly baked goods. This helps to eliminate cross contact and contamination risks for those who need to be.
2. Are you free from the top 9 allergens?
No. I still use dairy and eggs and some products contain soy/nuts/peanuts. I eliminate dairy and eggs in my vegan baked goods. I no longer use oats of any kind, not even GF brands.
3. Are you a bakery?
No. I am not a bakery. I do not operate out of a storefront. I am a home baker under MI Cottage Food Law which allows me to work out of my home kitchen. I have certificates for food safety/operations and renew when needed.
4. Is your equipment dedicated?
Yes. My business equipment is dedicated for my gluten free baking. This is everything from my fridge/freezer, shelves, workspace, pots/pans/baking sheets, microwave, etc. Our home oven has beengluten free since 2020.
5. Is your facility 100% dedicated?
No. Currently, my home is not 100% gluten free as I am the only person with Celiac. I do allow my family to have gluten items such as snacks, treats, bread, and occasional take out meals. However, there is a different space and location for such items. My family is aware of what cross contact and cross contamination is and practices food safety measures. My goal is to move into a 100% dedicated space in the near future.
6. How often do you clean/prep your space?
The space is cleaned before and after each use, just like any food facility. We try to deep clean as needed.
7. How do you check if your ingredients are gluten free or Celiac safe?
I go though several different processes with my sources by checking their labels, calling with questions, proof of food certifications/specs, and being updated with any food recalls from USDA, FDA, and MDARD.
8. Can I order just 1 or 2 single items like a cupcake or a cookie?
No. I am not a storefront bakery that can mass produce for individual sale. If you are interested in single items, you may find me at specific farmer’s markets from May – November. However, I do make single orders of special occasion cakes.
9. When should I place an order?
Thank you for asking! I require orders finalized and paid in full 2+ weeks before your need by date. This allows for timely production process of your order (cake, cupcakes, decorated sugar cookies, etc). Keep in mind, the bigger your event, the more time is required.
Note that during special occasions/holidays/ (New Year's, Valentine's, graduations, Christmas, etc.) throughout the year are generally busier. Availability for orders fill quickly and should be place earlier than 2 weeks. Market season does not allow time for custom order preparations during the busiest times May – September.
10. Do you have a minimum order requirement?
Yes. Depending on what is being ordered, there is often a minimum of 1-2 dozen. Each order form will specify the minimum for each product.
11. Do you cater or deliver for events?
I can provide baked goods for your event. These orders are typically for pick up only but delivery and setup can be provided for an additional fee. Anyone going to your event is welcomed to pick up the order and it does not have to be the listed contact person. However, the name of the pick up person would be appreciated to ensure your items get to your event.
12. What forms of payment do you take?