Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Olson.
Rachel, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am originally from Chicago and ever since I was a child, have wanted to have my own food business. I used to play restaurant in my basement with typed up menus, folding chairs and paper plates. My bachelor’s degree is in Hospitality Management and I have worked in the hotel and restaurant industry for Johnny Rockets, California Pizza Kitchen, Marriott and Lettuce Entertain You. We were relocated to Dallas for my husband’s job in 2013. She’s Gone Bananas started three years ago when my husband lost his job that had moved us here.
After baking banana bread for some friends they insisted that I sell it. The time came and we needed some extra income and so I made a post on Facebook. Slowly the orders came in. A few months later I hosted a tasting party and introduced my mother in law’s sugar cookies with buttercream. Everyone loved them. As my business continued to grow so many people were asking about cakes. I kept telling them “no, I don’t do cakes.” Then I made my first cake… it was for my neighbor’s birthday. I posted it on social media and people went nuts. So now I make custom cakes using only buttercream, no fondant. I also create homemade rice cereal treats and other sweet treats. It’s funny because now I hardly make any banana bread.
Has it been a smooth road?
To be honest, it’s hard to be an entrepreneur. When my business began I was working full time. It was a juggling act. Having a work, life balance is extremely important. Especially when your business takes over your home. I am fortunate that my husband and son support me 100%. Since I am a self-taught baker there was a huge learning curve with cake decorating. A lot of trial and error and late nights in the beginning while trying to figure it all out. In April I took the leap and quit my job to bake full time. Now my business is no longer a hobby but a way to earn income for our family.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with She’s Gone Bananas – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
She’s Gone Bananas is a locally owned home bakery. I am your local baker and sweet treat maker. Originally my business was solely banana bread and now has expanded and I make sugar cookies, custom buttercream frosted cakes, rice cereal treats, cupcakes, chocolate covered pretzels and other custom treats. I am proud that I was able to quit my full-time job and can now focus solely on my passion and do what I love. My hospitality management background gives me knowledge on the service aspect of my business and people recognize that. One day I hope to have a storefront where I can serve my fresh baked goods and inspire others to follow their passion.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
We love Dallas! Never would we have thought we would be living in Texas but, here we are. I don’t miss the snow or cold weather in Chicago, but we do miss the food. Dallas is a very friendly city and I love the entrepreneurial spirit. I have been able to meet so many inspiring people and grow my network both personally and professionally.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shesgonebananas.com
- Phone: 847-208-8637
- Email: rachel@shesgonebananas.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/shesgonebananas.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shesgonebananas
Image Credit:
Creative Content by Sarah
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