Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamila Muhammad
Hi Jamila , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
What started as a small farmers market pop-up in 2013 has grown into a treasured local spot for allergy-friendly and plant-based baked goods. As a single mom with a deep love for baking and personal experience with food allergies, founding Mila’s Front Porch has been a journey of resilience, passion, and innovation.
When I first launched Three Girls Bakery, my goal was simple: to create delicious treats that not only tasted indulgent but were also “good and good for you.” My own struggles with food allergies shaped my vision, making me realize just how few high-quality, allergy-friendly options existed in the market. I saw an opportunity to create something special—desserts that anyone, regardless of dietary restrictions, could enjoy.
With my Associate of Science in Baking and Pastry Management from Valencia College and my personal experiences guiding me, I set out to make this dream a reality. As word spread about my allergy-friendly, plant-based, and vegan treats, demand quickly grew, pushing me to take a leap of faith.
In 2021, I opened Mila’s Front Porch at Oviedo Mall, turning my farmers market success into a full retail space where I could share my passion with the community. For two years, the bakery thrived, becoming a haven for people looking for allergen-conscious, handcrafted desserts that didn’t compromise on flavor.
Although I closed the Oviedo Mall location in 2023, this is far from the end of my journey. Mila’s Front Porch continues to evolve, staying true to the mission that started it all: to bring joy through baked goods that everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary needs.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Reflecting on the journey, I’d say it’s been far from a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced my share of challenges—especially in balancing single parenthood with growing a business. Funding has been one of the toughest aspects since I’ve relied primarily on personal capital to keep the bakery going. There were moments when juggling the demands of parenting and entrepreneurship felt overwhelming, but every challenge has also been an opportunity for growth.
When I look back, I see a road filled with learning and resilience. Each hurdle has helped shape Mila’s Front Porch into what it is today, strengthening my dedication to providing safe, allergy-friendly options and delicious traditional desserts to my community. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding, and I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Mila’s Front Porch, our mission is to create exceptional baked goods that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. We’re committed to using only the highest quality ingredients to craft allergy-friendly treats that can be customized to be free from gluten, nuts, dairy, soy, and other common allergens at our customers’ request. Our goal is to offer a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where everyone can indulge with confidence and peace of mind.
We take great pride in bringing joy and satisfaction to the Central Florida community by offering delicious, innovative, and health-conscious products that cater to a diverse range of needs. Through our dedication to excellence, safety, and customer care, we aim to be a trusted and beloved part of this community for years to come.
Mila’s Front Porch is poised for growth and success. With a clear vision for expanding our product line, enhancing the customer experience, and increasing market reach through online sales and potential franchising, I’m committed to moving the business forward while staying true to the core values of quality, safety, and inclusivity.
What’s next?
There is limited competition in the area when it comes to allergy-friendly bakeries, and none offer the unique level of customization that Mila’s Front Porch provides. We serve a very niche market by allowing customers to order custom cakes or desserts tailored to their specific dietary or allergy needs. This level of personalization sets us apart.
Looking ahead, I see expansion into wholesale as a key factor in our continued success. Schools, institutions, and large companies are increasingly looking for ways to meet their customers’ growing dietary needs. Mila’s Front Porch can provide these clients with gluten-free, plant-based/vegan, or keto/sugar-free options, allowing them to offer inclusive treats that cater to everyone.
As mentioned earlier, I have a clear vision for expanding our product line, enhancing the customer experience, and increasing our market reach through online sales and potential franchising. I’m committed to driving the business forward while staying true to our core values of quality, safety, and inclusivity.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://milasfrontporch.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/milasfrontporch
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/milasfrontporch
