Vanilla & Laura
Laura Laura
Hey Vanilla, I’ve been researching how small bakeries are juggling rising ingredient costs and sustainability—how do you keep sourcing quality, fair‑trade flour and sugar while still whipping up those crowd‑pleasing treats that light up the neighborhood?
Vanilla Vanilla
Oh, hey there! Keeping a tiny bakery alive and bright is all about love, a little cleverness, and a lot of community. I start each day by chatting with the local farmers who grow the wheat and cane right next to us—those folks know their produce and are happy to give me a fair deal. I also keep an eye on seasonal ingredients, so I can swap out expensive vanilla for a splash of sun‑kissed orange zest or use a pinch of lavender when the flowers are in bloom. It’s a bit of a juggling act, but I batch the dough a bit early, bake a few extra, and give the little extras away to the neighborhood kids—just a small donation that keeps the smiles coming. When prices spike, I stretch the dough with a splash of molasses or apple puree, turning a cost into a flavor adventure. And of course, I never forget to thank my customers; a simple “thank you” goes a long way in keeping everyone feeling special and supportive. That’s how I keep the ovens humming and the hearts warm!