I’m thrilled to bring you another coaching session on today’s episode of The Bread Winner Podcast! I had the pleasure of chatting with Danica, the owner of Deere Creek Bakery in North Georgia, as we dove into the heart of her microbakery business. From navigating her first farmers market to managing the intricacies of freshly milled wheat and sourdough baking, Danica shares her inspiring journey of turning a passion into a business. Together, we strategize ways to overcome time management challenges, improve efficiency, and confidently step into sustainable growth.
If you’ve ever wondered how to balance bulk baking, pricing adjustments, and growing your customer base without burning out, this episode is packed with practical insights you won’t want to miss. Plus, we discuss the importance of collaboration over competition in the sourdough world and explore creative strategies to connect with more customers. Listen in for actionable advice to take your microbakery to the next level—and feel empowered knowing you’re not alone in the hustle!
Connect with Danica on Instagram! www.instagram.com/deerecreekbakery
Do you want coaching like this to grow in your own sourdough business? Book a 1:1 Call with Caroline: https://calendar.app.google/DMTtsD62F56K247s7
Download the FREE Guide and Checklist, Your First Steps to a Successful In-Home Bakery at https://mailchi.mp/thebluebirdbreadco/checklist to begin building YOUR thriving microbakery!
Caroline Bower Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinebower_sourdough
From Passion to Profit: A Coaching Session with Danica of Deere Creek Bakery
Every microbakery owner has a unique journey, and Danica’s story is no exception. In this special coaching session, I had the privilege of speaking with her about the challenges and triumphs of growing her bakery, Deere Creek Bakery, nestled in North Georgia. Together, we tackled everything from time management to pricing strategies and building a loyal customer base. Here’s a recap of our conversation, packed with actionable tips to help you grow your microbakery.
Starting from Scratch: Danica’s Story
Danica’s path to owning a bakery started with her love for freshly milled wheat. After learning to bake from her mother-in-law, she found herself experimenting with sourdough and sharing her creations with family and friends. Encouragement from her community led her to sell her first loaf, and Deere Creek Bakery was born.
Her first farmers market was a milestone. Despite initial nerves and doubts about her bread’s quality, she sold out in just three hours. This experience affirmed her potential and the demand for her products. However, the journey wasn’t without challenges. Managing time, scaling recipes, and maintaining profitability were pressing concerns.
Key Challenges and Actionable Tips
1. Managing Time Efficiently Balancing a growing bakery with family life is no easy feat. Here’s how Danica can streamline her process:
Plan baking schedules strategically: Prep non-perishable items, like packaging, early in the week. Reserve hands-on baking for specific days.
Mix dough in bulk: Larger mixing containers, such as bus tubs, can cut down on repetitive tasks. Experiment to find the right size that balances efficiency and manageability.
Adjust baking schedules: Consider starting tasks earlier in the day or letting shaped dough rest longer in the fridge to avoid late nights.
Track bottlenecks: Identify areas where time is wasted—like mixing dough multiple times—and explore ways to consolidate steps.
2. Scaling Recipes Confidently Scaling up can be daunting, but practice makes perfect.
Start small: Test a larger batch size with a "practice week" where extra loaves aren’t pre-sold. Offer them as discounted extras to gauge customer interest.
Use reliable equipment: Gradually invest in tools like bannetons and larger mixing tubs to streamline processes.
Experiment thoughtfully: Adjust timing and techniques for larger batches to avoid over-proofing or rushed steps.
3. Pricing Products Strategically Freshly milled wheat and labor-intensive baking deserve premium pricing.
Evaluate costs and time: Track ingredient costs, equipment investments, and labor to understand your profit margins.
Gradual price increases: Use natural transition points, like the start of a new year, to introduce higher prices. Let customers know in advance and frame it as a way to maintain quality.
Test market pricing: Danica found success selling cinnamon rolls at a higher price during her market, proving customers value her product.
4. Growing a Loyal Customer Base A loyal customer base is the backbone of any bakery.
Leverage local markets: Farmers markets provide visibility and opportunities to grow an email or text list. Capture customer information for future sales.
Engage on social media: Post consistently in local Facebook groups. Use conversational posts to spark interaction, such as polls or flavor suggestions.
Offer specials: Weekly menu updates and “oops” sales for discounted products can attract new and returning customers.
The Power of Collaboration
Danica’s openness to collaborating with other bakers in her area is a refreshing approach. By connecting with others who specialize in different products—like sourdough pasta or croissants—she can foster community over competition. Collaborative events, like a local bakers’ market, could bring mutual benefits and strengthen their shared customer base.
Avoiding Burnout
As a mom of three with a busy schedule, Danica recognizes the importance of avoiding burnout. A few strategies to help:
Shift tasks earlier: Free up evenings by prioritizing key steps earlier in the day.
Embrace the slow weeks: Use quieter times to plan, prep, and restock for busier seasons.
Set boundaries: Limit late nights by reassessing baking timelines and resting dough longer in the fridge.
Slow, Steady, and Sustainable Growth
Building a microbakery is a marathon, not a sprint. Danica’s story shows that with thoughtful planning, a willingness to adapt, and a focus on community, growth becomes manageable and rewarding. Whether it’s raising prices, refining processes, or expanding a customer base, slow and steady wins the race.
If you’re navigating similar challenges, take a page from Danica’s journey. Remember, small, intentional changes add up over time. Your hard work is worth it, and your community will recognize the value you bring.
Are you ready to implement these tips in your microbakery? Let me know in the comments, or tag me and Danica on Instagram with your thoughts! Let’s keep the conversation going—and keep baking!
