November in Review: Scaling Back, Growing Stronger, and Lessons for Sourdough Bakers
As a sourdough micro bakery owner, balancing the demands of business and life, especially during the holiday season, can be a challenge. November was a month of reflection, lessons learned, and intentional steps forward. In this post, I’m sharing my November recap and actionable steps you can take to grow your own baking business sustainably.
Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned baker navigating seasonal demands, these insights will help you build a profitable business without burnout.
1. Strategize for Seasonal Peaks
What I Did:Heading into November, my goal was clear: conserve energy for Thanksgiving while still delivering value to my customers. I scaled back my weekly porch pickup offerings to create space for the Thanksgiving rush and planned my Thanksgiving menu carefully to avoid overcommitting.
Actionable Steps:
Plan Ahead: Create a clear strategy for busy seasons. Identify which weeks need scaled-back offerings to save energy for peak demand.
Limit Your Menu: Stick to core products that are customer favorites, and cap your inventory realistically to prevent burnout.
Communicate Clearly: Use multiple channels (text, email, social media) to let customers know about special schedules and offerings.
2. Optimize Prep Systems to Save Time
What I Did:This month, I leaned heavily on systems I’ve built to streamline prep work. Labeling bags, printing labels in advance, and prepping ingredients ahead saved time on busy baking days.
Actionable Steps:
Batch Prep: Dedicate time early in the week to batch tasks like labeling, measuring ingredients, and organizing your workspace.
Invest in Tools: Use software or tools (like a speed rack cover or warming mat) to manage temperature-sensitive doughs and streamline production.
Delegate Tasks: If you have an assistant, delegate repetitive tasks like labeling or cleaning to free up your focus for baking.
3. Manage Market Sales Efficiently
What I Did:Market sales in November varied—from a slow week where I brought home unsold loaves to a sell-out week with strong foot traffic. For unsold items, I hosted a quick flash sale on social media, turning leftovers into extra revenue and community engagement.
Actionable Steps:
Test the Waters: Bring a mix of customer favorites and new flavors to test what resonates. Rotate based on feedback.
Prepare for Slow Days: Have a plan to sell unsold inventory quickly. Use local Facebook groups or Instagram Stories for flash sales.
Engage at the Market: Use markets to connect with customers and promote regular pickups or preorders to grow your base.
4. Overcome Perfectionism in Content Creation
What I Did:In a week where I felt under the weather, I almost skipped recording an episode. Instead, I wrote bullet points, used AI to help draft a script, and delivered something meaningful without overextending myself.
Actionable Steps:
Focus on Consistency: Done is better than perfect. Create content, even if it’s not flawless.
Leverage AI Tools: Use tools like ChatGPT to generate content drafts or brainstorm ideas when you’re stuck.
Repurpose Content: Turn podcast episodes into blog posts, social media captions, or email newsletters to maximize their reach.
5. Learn From Seasonal Challenges
What I Did:I learned key lessons this month, like managing under-proofed dough in colder weather and adjusting my timeline for freezing dinner rolls.
Actionable Steps:
Adapt to the Season: Use tools like warming mats or speed rack covers to combat cooler temperatures. Test new methods for proofing dough in winter.
Plan Freezing Timelines: Avoid freezing bread or rolls for longer than two weeks to preserve rise quality.
Track Your Learnings: Keep a baking journal to note seasonal adjustments and lessons learned for future reference.
6. Build Customer Loyalty With Special Offers
What I Did: For the holidays, I'm offering thoughtful gift options like scone flights and heritage loaves, catering to customer needs while keeping my offerings manageable.
Actionable Steps:
Create Seasonal Gifts: Offer items like small scone boxes, cookie flights, or holiday-themed loaves for easy gifting.
Highlight Premium Options: Cater to niche customer groups with specialty products, such as organic or heritage grain loaves.
Keep It Limited: Avoid overextending by setting inventory limits and focusing on quality over quantity.
7. Prepare for the Next Quarter
What I Did:November was also a time to reflect and plan. I used a solo hotel stay as a chance to review the past year and set goals for Q1 of 2025, including better social media engagement and building deeper customer loyalty.
Actionable Steps:
Set Q1 Goals: Use December to outline goals for the next quarter, such as expanding offerings, improving marketing, or refining systems.
Focus on Community: Engage with your existing customers through regular communication, loyalty rewards, or special offers.
Embrace Slow Periods: Use slower months like January to reset, experiment with new products, or invest in skill-building.
Key Takeaways for Sourdough Bakers
November taught me the importance of balance—between scaling back and pushing forward, serving my customers and protecting my energy. By setting clear boundaries, leaning on systems, and embracing lessons from challenges, I was able to serve my community without losing joy in the process.
Now it’s your turn—use these steps to reflect on your November and prepare for a thriving December. What worked well? What needs tweaking? And how can you serve your customers and yourself better in the months ahead?
Ready to Take Your Bakery to the Next Level?
If you’re looking for personalized guidance on building your sourdough business, I’m offering one-on-one coaching sessions! For just $99/month, you’ll get two calls with me to refine your strategies and grow sustainably. Click here to book your first call now.
Let’s grow together! 🌟 https://stan.store/Carolinebower_sourdough/p/preblack-friday-coaching-offer
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
Try Sunrise Flour Mill Organic Heritage Flour: 20% off Sunrise Flour Mill https://thebreadwinner.captivate.fm/sunrise20
