Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alyssa Sobecki, owner of The Difference Baker, located in Leesburg, VA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Difference Baker is certified FREE FROM gluten, soy, peanut, tree-nut, fish, sesame, and crustacean bakery, bistro, and shared kitchen space in Loudoun County, Virginia. We are the ONLY retail company in the country that carries all these certifications. 75% of our products are vegan and free from the top 9 allergens! Our mission is to bless lives one bite at a time and to spread love to the allergen community.
Tell us about yourself
I struggled with dietary restrictions my whole life and went undiagnosed until my early 20s. But when two of my three children, plus my husband, were diagnosed with food intolerances and life-threatening allergies – well, look out, world! I became single-mindedly passionate about finding a way for myself and my family to be safe while still sharing delicious food with others.
I believed I was truly called by God to open my bakery. So with some faith, love, and hope, The Difference Baker was born in 2019. As the bakery grew (beginning only with gluten-free, peanut-free, and soy-free), I pushed the limits for more inclusivity and eliminated soy, fish, shellfish, sesame, and all nuts.
Today, my mission to make life sweeter for those with food restrictions continues to grow. The Difference Baker ships safe and delicious baked goods all across the country. I still meticulously oversee the recipe development, ingredient sourcing, and, of course, my fun and comfortable bistro-bakery and rentable shared kitchen in my hometown of Ashburn, VA.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Being able to serve the allergen community, and my precious customers, in a way no one has.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I personally struggle for the patience that is needed for the next chapter. We haven't stopped growing since we opened up the doors, but there is so much more that this business can and will do. It is just a matter of time. That is where the struggle is, patience in the "time."
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Choose wisely, as close to your personal mission and passions as possible, and do everything with love. Doing everything with love is the more important ingredient to any successful business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://thedifferencebaker.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedifferencebaker
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedifferencebaker/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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