We recently connected with Michelle Scheatzle and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Michelle, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
The primary objective of Deliciously Keto Desserts is to offer high-quality gluten and sugar-free alternatives to individuals with specific dietary requirements. The inception of this venture had been a long-considered endeavor, but circumstances shifted when I experienced a divorce. Suddenly, I found myself in need of a source of income after dedicating two decades to being a stay-at-home parent. Despite my initial apprehensions, I have always embraced challenges as opportunities for growth.
Determined to embark on this entrepreneurial journey, I visited the library and borrowed books on commencing a business. My academic qualifications only extended to high school, but my commitment to continuous learning played a significant role in my accomplishments. After formulating a comprehensive plan, I diligently executed it, even though it was an intimidating prospect as I had never undertaken such an endeavor independently before.
My persistence led me to reach out to various local farmers’ markets to secure a spot as a vendor. I faced numerous rejections, but I recognized these setbacks as part of the learning process. To participate in these markets, applications had to be submitted in January for the entire year, and I was attempting this in July. Eventually, I found an opportunity with a market that had an opening and an enthusiastic manager who followed a keto diet herself. I consider this stroke of luck more as divine guidance. My presence at these markets resulted in successful sales on most weekends, and I took pride in assisting people with their dietary goals and restrictions.
After the conclusion of the market season, I transitioned to online sales. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed new challenges. Fortunately, my local keto community remained loyal, and I continued to provide them with products, personally delivering orders. During that time, I had established three locations for order pickups. The following autumn, I relocated to a different city and joined another local market. Since then, our operations have expanded to include online sales and shipping for select items.
Today, our primary focus is on catering to individuals who require our products for medical reasons, aligning perfectly with our mission and our dedication to making a positive impact.
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?
My name is Michelle, and I dedicated two decades of my life as a stay-at-home mom. Following a divorce, I established DKD as a means to support myself. Over time, this venture has transformed into a profound passion of mine. While it may not be my sole source of financial support, it allows me to fulfill my dreams of owning a business and serving a community of individuals who rely on the keto diet for medical reasons.
My clientele comprises a diverse range of individuals, including recovering cancer patients, people dealing with conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, autism, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. It’s worth noting that the Keto Diet originally emerged as a treatment for epilepsy, with a remarkable side effect being substantial weight loss. In contemporary times, it is utilized as a potent anti-inflammatory tool.
The ability to offer exceptionally delicious treats and sweets is, without a doubt, a blessing both for me and my valued clients
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
In addition to the challenge posed by my limited education, I embarked on the journey of starting a business shortly before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world grappled with the uncertainties of the pandemic, I observed numerous businesses succumbing to the economic pressures. The era of COVID-19 was undeniably a daunting and uncertain period.
During this time, my role at FedEx experienced a surge in workload, as more people stayed at home, creating an opportunity for them to research and seek out the products they desired. I witnessed a growing interest in my offerings, yet initially, I struggled to meet the demands for shipping orders due to the demands of my job.
Nevertheless, I persevered and eventually found a solution that allowed me to provide shipping services to customers nationwide. I remained committed to not only sustaining my business but also supporting my local community. This unwavering determination propelled me forward, despite the challenges.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
The most significant turning point in my life occurred when I transitioned from being a stay-at-home mom to entering the workforce and initiating a business venture. Reentering the professional sphere presented considerable challenges, primarily due to my educational background, which extended only to high school. This limitation reduced the range of available opportunities. Nevertheless, I managed to overcome this constraint through gaining valuable experience and persistently pursuing my goals.
Reconfiguring my life story required unwavering daily focus and dedication. The vision I held for my future and my reality at the age of 45 were vastly different. This period marked a profound rediscovery of my individual identity and a realization of my untapped potential. It was an exhilarating yet, at times, nerve-wracking chapter in my life.
Fast forward five years, and I continue to make progress. I eagerly anticipate the future and look forward to discovering the next chapter in both the journey of Deliciously Keto Desserts and my own life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://deliciouslyketodesserts.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/deliciously.keto.desserts?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deliciouslyketodesserts?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
https://seharsphotography.com/mini-sessions?fbclid=PAAabmY6UfyzeWNXKUNEcdS_lKoXmJyc158N-MuMlj95Bid2LZzaIa5Vb6kcY_aem_AbXMGO7xAjaI_240PFxZvQALqBILQYDjmwFifDrhIRTI3Zx34Ktcc9ajiCRwnH37JnU