We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gently. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gently below.

Hi Gently , thanks for joining us today. Parents play a huge role in our development as youngsters and sometimes that impact follows us into adulthood and into our lives and careers. Looking back, what’s something you think you parents did right?

The question is, “What did my parents do right?” And while I could list a few things, the truth is—what impacted me most were the things I didn’t realize at the time.

Growing up, we had what we needed and a lot of what we wanted. My parents were the definition of “make it happen.” I didn’t know we were living paycheck to paycheck until I got older, because they never let it show. There was no stress in the air, no scarcity in the conversation—just love, support, and somehow, everything we asked for showing up like magic.

Looking back, that quiet sacrifice taught me some of the most valuable lessons. It showed me what strength, strategy, and perseverance really look like. It also made me curious about what was happening behind the curtain—how money worked, why it was so tight, and how to make sure my future family didn’t have to operate in survival mode, even when they made it look effortless.

Their ability to give us everything they could, without letting us see the strain, is what shaped my drive to build something sustainable. I’m not just creating wealth—I’m creating ease, freedom, and transparency, so the next generation doesn’t just get what they want, they understand how it’s possible.

That’s the legacy they unknowingly helped me build.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hi, I’m Gently Bernadette, the owner and founder of Crummz Brunch & Bake in Murrells Inlet. My business is a celebration of the flavors and traditions that have shaped me – blending the vibrant, bold tastes of Trinidadian cuisine with the rich culinary heritage of my southern roots. Through my work as a vegan caterer and baker, I offer an exciting fusion of plant-based dishes that reflect both my Trinidadian and southern heritage, bringing the best of both worlds to the table.

I started my journey five years ago, but my personal transformation began eight years ago after a health scare that led me to adopt a vegan lifestyle. This life change inspired me to rebrand my business in 2019/2020, aligning it with my passion for plant-based eating. However, I believe that flavor knows no boundaries, and while most of my clients aren’t vegan, I take pride in creating dishes that are inclusive and appeal to everyone. Whether it’s a vegan doubles, Trinidadian-inspired Christmas rice, or a refreshing glass of sorrel, my menu is a vibrant reflection of my cultural roots – and it’s all made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

What sets Crummz Brunch & Bake apart is not only my dedication to quality and sustainability but also the unique fusion of flavors I bring. I work closely with local farmers to ensure that my ingredients are fresh, flavorful, and sustainably sourced. I’m committed to offering food that is both nourishing and satisfying, regardless of dietary preferences. Many of my clients are non-vegan, but they return time and time again because the food is just that good – they don’t miss the meat!

I’m most proud of the connections I’ve built with my community through my food. It’s rewarding to see people who may have never tried plant-based dishes before discovering how delicious and satisfying they can be. My goal is to offer both familiar favorites and bold new tastes, all while staying true to my roots and values.

When you think of Crummz Brunch & Bake, I want you to know that I’m not just about vegan food – I’m about bringing people together with flavorful dishes that honor my Trinidadian and southern heritage. Every meal, every dessert, and every catered event is an invitation to experience the best of both worlds, served with love, creativity, and a whole lot of flavor.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I truly believe my reputation was built through my personality and how I treat people. I’ve always approached my work with kindness, transparency, and a genuine desire to serve others. I include people, I listen, and I make sure everyone feels seen and valued. My honesty and passion for helping others have allowed me to build trust naturally. People have described my spirit as fun-loving, welcoming, and God-like—it’s never been just about business for me, it’s about connection. That energy has attracted the right clients and built lasting relationships.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

I keep in touch with my clients by staying intentional and consistent. Whether it’s a quick check-in, a birthday message, or a simple “thinking of you” note, I make an effort to stay connected beyond just business. I use social media, texts, and even face-to-face time when possible to remind them they’re more than just clients—they’re part of my community. I believe brand loyalty comes from real relationships, and I always want people to feel like they matter, because they truly do. When people know you care, they come back—not just for your service, but for how you made them feel.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: @followthecrummtrail
• Facebook: Crummz Brunch & Bake LLC