We recently connected with Samantha Ward and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Samantha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
Our mission is to create luxurious baked goods which are always plant based, gluten-free and made with natural ingredients that treat your digestive system well. We also create allergen free items which are free of the top 10 foods allergens.
Samantha, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I stumbled into my industry by necessity. I realized there were no baked goods readily available for my dietary needs. I had been diagnosed with digestive issues which was causing inflammation so I was put on the FODMAP diet which is tough to follow. I still craved sugar but I had to remove ingredients like processed sugars, gluten, dairy and eggs. I decided in order to be successful with this diet I needed to create something that I could enjoy so I created an Almond flour cookie sweetened with Stevia. Our company has since grown to provide cookies, donuts, pie, tarts, fudge and frozen items as well as an Allergen- free line “Micah’s Rules”
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been to really be my authentic self. Telling my story multiple times, sharing tips and advice that has helped me are the ways in which I gain clientele. Also learning from my customers by asking them questions. I always ask what their dietary needs are or what their struggles are so that I can figure out ways to provide the baked goods and best advice for them. We laugh about it we strategize and work together to come up with ways and suggestive solutions.
I truly want people to know that there are healthy baked goods and foods that meet their personal needs and ways to heal gut issues.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
When I began this company 3 years ago I wanted everyone to share in the fact that I made baked goods that are healthy and low-glycemic. I realized that not everyone eats the way I do and that’s ok. I had to pivot to a market that focuses on food allergens, celiac, digestive issues and solely plant based individuals. This is my market and due to the nature of the ingredients the pricing is appropriate for those in my target market. We don’t cut corners. Our ingredients are all natural and healthy to digest.
That meant serving and marketing to areas and establishments that are health conscious.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.orchidsbakedgoods.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delicious_orchidscookies/?igsh=YThveGxtbHIxZHds&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-ward-010a2a220?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://www.instagram.com/delicious_orchidscookies/?igsh=YThveGxtbHIxZHds&utm_source=qr
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/orchid-s-baked-goods-duluth?osq=orchids+baked+goods
Image Credits
Campbell Washington Photography
Jennifer Ngo JUST WINK BUCKHEAD