All the Best - Good Riddance! Gluten-Free Bakery

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Wendy Serban, owner of Good Riddance! Gluten-Free Bakery, located in Fort Wayne, IN, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business is a 100% gluten-free, full-service bakery. I also take care of other allergens or sensitivities, such as dairy and tree nuts. I also offer paleo and vegan options. My customers are ones who need to be gluten-free or want to be gluten-free for health reasons. I have honed my products over time so that even people who are not gluten-free enjoy them as much as regular baked goods.

Tell us about yourself

My background and degree are actually in business. I’ve always loved to cook and bake; I have taken some culinary classes and loved to entertain. Over 15 years ago, my oldest daughter was diagnosed with Celiac. A few years later, my twins were diagnosed with it also. We discovered it came from my side of the family. My love of cooking and baking became not only a necessity to be 100% gluten-free, but it awoke a passion in me to become a great gluten-free baker. The perfectionist in me had me researching how different flours and starches combined together— what combinations worked best for breads, pastries, cakes, etc. I wanted my gluten-free goods to taste just as good as regular baked goods,

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say my biggest accomplishment was gaining a loyal customer base. Having customers know, with confidence, that they can turn to me for help with their dietary needs.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

There are days when things do not work perfectly, and that is okay. Learning to adapt to situations and realize that you can still reach your goals.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

First, never give up. There is no such thing as failure. You always learn from things that don’t work out as planned. Second, get involved with other entrepreneurs in your area. You can learn a lot from others, and they can be a great support group. Third, put your ideas and goals on paper, no matter how small or large they are. Writing them down makes them real and attainable. Start small, working towards one goal at a time.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

There is such satisfaction in making your ideas into a business. What makes it a success is when you find that “thing” you are truly passionate about— that is what comes through and reaches others.

Where can people find you and your business?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GlutenfreePride/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodriddancegfbakery/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlutenfreePride

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.

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