Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kimberle Lau, founder and chief baker of Bake Me Healthy, located in Syosset, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Bake Me Healthy is a new purpose-driven subscription box that advocates for healthy baking with natural and organic ingredients from small businesses. We partner with small businesses with a focus on sustainability, women, and minorities and teach our subscribers how to bake better with these plant-based ingredients. Our subscribers are happy moms knowing they are learning and creating healthy treats and desserts for their children and family.
Tell us about yourself
I've been baking for 20 years because I have a terrible sweet tooth. When I became a mother ten years ago, I started becoming very conscious about not only what my children were eating but also my husband and me. I started to bake healthier, using less sugar and butter and more plants. I researched ingredients extensively. When I discovered the negative side effects of artificial food coloring, I banned it completely from my kitchen. I created and tested recipes so that kids and parents couldn't tell that the treats were healthier.
I wanted to share my learnings and convince people that healthy, plant-based baking can be delicious, so I launched my subscription box. What I love most about my role is inspiring and teaching moms that they can treat their families with a side nutrition. Plus, I have the coolest job because I get to discover and meet small business owners who are making a positive impact in the world through their food and introduce their brands to my subscribers. I know I'm baking the world a better place.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has been supporting small businesses and partnering with large companies like Hot Bread Kitchen, VOX Media, and Girl Scouts to bring plant-based baking into more homes.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing as a business owner and specifically a female entrepreneur, is showing oneself grace. Unlike working in corporate America, there is only one you to get the job done of 20 people. Plus, there is no owner's manual to success, so you're constantly trying to figure out what will work. It's difficult not to feel disappointed in not meeting your expectations. Fortunately, a good support group helps serve as reminders to have patience and self-compassion.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
It's really hard to start, run and grow a business. If you have an idea, run with it because you don't want to live with regrets. My top tips are:
- Be mentally and physically ready. The hours are long, and defeat/ the unknown can take a toll. Don't burn out.
- Talk to anyone and everyone. You don't know what you don't know. Learn from anyone willing to talk to you.
- Have a strong support group. Entrepreneurship can be a lonely road. Be sure to have a support group that you can bounce off ideas or simply help you destress.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://bakemehealthybox.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bakemehealthybox
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bakemehealthybox/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bake-me-healthy/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.