Vintage Cakes and Allergen-Free Treats

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lauren McGowan, Founder of Violet Bakehouse, located in Montréal, QC, Canada.

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

I'm the owner of Violet Bakehouse, a gluten-free, dairy-free, sometimes vegan tiny bakery specializing in vintage cakes and quirky treats. Most of my customers are people with food intolerances or dietary restrictions or people that love them. My cakes have a very distinctive nostalgic look that resonates with a lot of people.

Tell us about yourself

I've always loved food and worked in the industry on and off. When I was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2016, I had to relearn how to bake without gluten. I slowly figured out recipes and started selling cakes and baked goods to friends. I launched as a micro-bakery, baking out of my home in 2020. I've been working out of a cake studio for a year now. I love making cakes for celebrations big and small, and to contribute in a small way to that joy is a gift. Dietary restrictions can be isolating, and I seek to make options that can be enjoyed by all.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I think my biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been creating a business that works for me. I run a non-traditional bakery and am able to be creative, set my own menu, source my ingredients as ethically as possible, and run my business according to my own values. As a person with chronic illness, it is invaluable to be able to set my own work schedule and work with my body rather than against it.

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

I would say one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is setting boundaries. It's nothing new to say, but it's true! Especially as I run my business alone, there's always more to do. Having a space outside my home to work has helped immensely and is a great privilege.

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

If you're looking to start a business, I'd say:

Niche down. Sometimes it seems like the more personal the business more relatable it is to people. Customers can tell if it comes from a place of interest and care.
Don't be afraid to move slowly. There's so much pressure to make every detail of your business right away. Moving at your own pace and respecting your needs will build a more sustainable business.
Observe and interact. Give yourself room to try things and then reassess. Make room for mistakes and growth.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://violetbakehouse.ca/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMcGowan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violetbakehouse/

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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