I’ve been away from my computer for a couple of weeks. So much to do between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I’m sure you’re as busy as I am with all of the preparations. I’m baking up a storm.
As I mentioned in a previous post, I began to develop some of my own gluten-free recipes in 2006 while I was recuperating from my cancer surgery. My goal was to offer a taste and consistency that were close to those of baked goods made with wheat flour. After I had a few good recipes under my belt, I came up with the brilliant idea to sell my delicious products to others who were eating gluten free. I founded Kitchen Tasties, LLC and created a website for my business. I did my best to advertise it without spending a lot of money. I was featured in an article about my business in the April, 2007 issue of the free publication, Natural Awakenings – Healthy Living.
I also contacted various celiac support groups around the country to get the word out. It was a real thrill when I eventually started receiving orders. One very important fact that I learned was that gluten-free baked goods didn’t have a long shelf life. Therefore, I decided to ship my muffins, cakes and brownies frozen. I was trying to keep them fresher, longer by doing this. In addition, I put frozen ice packs in the boxes. After several months I was able to return to my full-time job and do my baking on the side. I subscribed to a trade magazine geared for the baking industry. It was there that I read about an online bakery that was looking for other bakers to join forces. I visited the website at 1-800-Bakery.com. I noticed there weren’t any gluten-free items offered. I saw an opportunity here.
I called Chef Steve and asked if I could be part of his online bakery. First I had to bake some samples for him to try. After he tasted my muffins he agreed to take me on. I closed down my own website. He did all the advertising so I didn’t have that expense anymore. All I had to do was bake and ship directly to the customer. I did that for several years. When the economy started to tank, it cost so much for me to ship my products. Also, I had to pay hefty shipping charges when I had 25 lb. bags of flour shipped to me. By this point I wasn’t making a profit so I left the online bakery. It sure was fun while it lasted.
Be sure to check out 1-800-Bakery.com. They now offer gluten-free items from other bakers, as well as, wheat flour based products. You can order for special occasions, holidays or just because you want to.
Until next time…
Running In Sandals 