We recently connected with Cara Pitts and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Cara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. One of our favorite things to brainstorm about with friends who’ve built something entrepreneurial is what they would do differently if they were to start over today. Surely, there are things you’ve learned that would allow you to do it over faster, more efficiently. We’d love to hear how you would go about setting things up if you were starting over today, knowing everything that you already know.
Looking back, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of being intentional about the advice you take and the people you learn from. It’s easy to mentor yourself out—taking in too much advice from too many sources can be overwhelming and counterproductive. Be careful who you’re listening to and assess them as a whole. Are they where you want to be, in the field you want to succeed in? How do they treat their employees and those around them? Their values and actions should align with where you see yourself and your business.
Another critical piece of advice: think twice before opening a business loan. While it may seem like an easy solution, the reality of large monthly payments can quickly become a burden. Instead, explore crowdfunding or other creative funding options first. Crowdfunding not only provides financial support but also builds a loyal community around your brand from the start.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Southern Roots Vegan Bakery is a labor of love, creativity, and community. Our journey began when my husband, Marcus, transitioned to a vegan lifestyle. Inspired by this change, I began veganizing my own recipes—ones I had created and cherished over the years. My goal was to preserve the rich, nostalgic flavors of Southern desserts while making them accessible to a plant-based audience. To my surprise, the results were even better than I had hoped, and when we shared these creations with friends, family, and our church community, their enthusiastic responses encouraged us to take the leap and turn our passion into a business.
Today, Southern Roots Vegan Bakery specializes in crafting gourmet, plant-based desserts that delight everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. Our menu includes signature Naked Cakes, fluffy cake donuts, indulgent cookies, and pies, all designed to redefine what vegan desserts can be. We strive to create desserts that everyone at the table can enjoy—proving that inclusivity and exceptional flavor can go hand in hand.
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to quality and community. Operating out of a professional commercial kitchen, we’ve scaled our business nationwide, offering free delivery in San Antonio and shipping our award-winning treats across the U.S. Our products have been celebrated by Good Morning America, The Washington Post, and Oprah Daily, but our heart remains firmly rooted in our hometown of San Antonio.
As a Black- and woman-owned business, we are proud to blend tradition with innovation, creating desserts that celebrate inclusivity and connection. At Southern Roots Vegan Bakery, we don’t just bake—we craft experiences that bring people together, one sweet bite at a time. By choosing us, you’re not just indulging in unforgettable desserts; you’re supporting a business built on authenticity, passion, and the belief that everyone deserves a seat at the table.
Can you talk to us about your experience with buying businesses?
Yes, we purchased Cielo Scoops, a vegan ice cream company, in Q4 of 2022. It was an incredible opportunity that aligned perfectly with our vision and values. As a husband-and-wife team ourselves, we felt deeply connected to the previous owners, who were also a husband-and-wife duo. Their passion for creating exceptional plant-based ice cream resonated with us and complemented our own mission of redefining vegan desserts.
We’ve always envisioned building a portfolio of brands under our legacy, and Cielo Scoops was a natural fit. The acquisition process was refreshingly easy and straightforward, which made the transition seamless. It allowed us to focus on what we do best—expanding the reach of delicious, inclusive desserts while staying true to the heart and story of each brand. We’re excited about the journey ahead and look forward to continuing Cielo Scoops’ legacy as part of the growing portfolio within our Pitts’ family legacy.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
When we started Southern Roots Vegan Bakery, I had just left my corporate career to become a full-time caregiver for my grandmother. Shortly after, Marcus experienced an unexpected layoff from his corporate job. This pivotal moment inspired us to go all in on Southern Roots. We used our savings and 401(k) to invest in our vision, starting as a home bakery. Over time, with determination and hard work, we grew the business into what it is today—operating from a commercial kitchen and partnering with a co-packer to meet growing demand.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.SouthernRootsVegan.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SouthernRootsBiz
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SouthernRootsBiz
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/southern-roots-vegan-bakery/
