We had the good fortune of connecting with Ditty Bhatti and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ditty, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
“Necessity is the mother of all invention.” After my oldest son was diagnosed with a gluten allergy, we eliminated everything that had gluten from our house. It was a sad and scary process, but it was nothing compared to watching our child suffer and not knowing the reason why for so many months. So, getting rid of gluten was a bitter-sweet moment. I think we had rice, beans, and a box of date-based granola bars left in the pantry. I cried. Converting into an exclusively gluten-free cook was a monumental challenge, but a mom does whatever she needs to do for her kids. The process required a huge learning curve, but over time my confusion turned into genuine curiosity of what was possible, and eventually became my comfort zone. I wanted my kids to lack for nothing, including delicious desserts.
So, what was my thought process for starting Ditty | A Gluten Free Bakery? My kids needed it, and now I see that a growing gluten-free community needs more options.
What should our readers know about your business?
Ditty | A Gluten Free Bakery is a family, serving our community with 100% gluten-free treats (cakes, cookies/bars, pies, and other treats). I have perfected many recipes over several years of painstaking experience, failures and testing, which are now loved by our family and friends, whether they are gluten-free or not. I know the need for gluten-free desserts that are more than just “okay” or “good for being gluten-free.” I strive for and have successfully attained the status of “This is so good, I can’t believe this is gluten-free!” I serve you in the same way that I serve my own family, with the same care, love, and appreciation for trusting us. I am fully invested in making sure you get a dessert that you love and makes you feel loved. I’m proud of our small business and its growth. I truly value and am grateful for my customers.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, my right-hand, my go-to person, and ultimate support is my husband. We are a busy family of six, so starting this bakery couldn’t be done without him picking up additional responsibilities during my busy days. He is my business manager, advisor/counselor, and even my delivery driver (my kids love this job too!). Second, my mom has been pretty integral in the bakery with her support and help. While I work on orders, we stay up and talk or watch our favorite TV shows together, which is an immeasurable benefit I am very grateful for. Also, I could not imagine doing this without my kids, who are the best taste testers, and offer the most “creative” opinions about what I make and new experiments. Finally, I have a friend to thank, but I can’t remember how to spell her name.
Even when I go through doubt and disappointment, I am grateful for a network of family and friends that help, inspire, and motivate me.
Website: https://www.dittybakes.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/dittybakesgf
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dittybakesgf
Other: https://www.findmeglutenfree.com/biz/ditty/5853129166422016
Image Credits
My headshot is by Ilona Jade Photography.