Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Richardson.
Hi Samantha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Samantha Richardson, I’m the proud mother of 3 beautiful princesses & the owner/operator of Hibiscus Bakery, a small bakery that I operate out of my home in Gainesville, Florida. Like many small businesses, Hibiscus Bakery was born during Covid. Not only did my family and myself have to deal with being sick, but I also was dealing with a pregnancy that was far from smooth.
The complications from the pregnancy forced me to leave my job. After I was laid off, I needed to find a way to turn the skills that I had into something profitable. I’ve always had a passion for cooking & baking. When in the kitchen, I can let my creativity flow. I love infusing the flavors of my home, the Caribbean, with traditional American foods. Thus, Hibiscus Bakery was born.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has been far from smooth. It’s been trying. Numerous ups and downs, both business-related and personal.
From figuring out sales and marketing strategies as a new business owner to tackling personal health issues, I’ve been able to persevere with lots of faith and a strong support system that includes my fiancé, my children, friends, and family.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Hibiscus Bakery?
Hibiscus Bakery is known for its unique twist on American treats infusing them with flavors of the Caribbean and other fun flavors. This is what I’d like our brand to be known for. We offer both vegan and gluten-free options for some of our items. I’m proud of how far the bakery has come.
We are steadily growing on Instagram. I enjoy meeting our new customers, and engaging with them whether at our Markets or through social media. While vending has provided an opportunity for growth, we are getting ready to focus on catering, wholesale, and online ordering and shipping. We believe this would be more cost-effective as a home-based Bakery. We also have a sister business called Soulshine Lemonade that sells tropical-flavored lemonade such as Mango, Guava, Passionfruit, and Pineapple. There are flavors such as Blueberry, Blackberry, Strawberry, and Lemon-limeade.
Our specialties are cinnamon Rolls, Brownies, cheesecake, muffins, cookies, and now our uniquely flavored lemonades. We do offer different flavored cakes as well. However, I tell my customers that I’m by no means a cake decorator. Haha!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I do keep up with Trenton Shelton which has been a great source of motivation.
I try to keep in constant contact with the Lord, whether through prayer or scripture. I also watch various inspiring videos or podcasts but I do not have a specific one that I watch daily.
Pricing:
- Cinnamon Rolls 4 for $20/ 8 for $35
- Brownies 3 for $15/6 for $25
- Cheesecakes Half for $25/Whole for $45
- Muffins and Cookies 1/2 Doz for $12/Doz for $20
- Flavored Lemonades $4
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.hibiscusbakery.com
- Instagram: @Hibiscusbakeryfl
- Facebook: Hibiscus Bakery
- Youtube: Hibiscus Bakery
- TikTok: @hibiscusbakeryflorida
