Natural Decadence
“We have been amazed at the amount of support we’ve received. We can honestly say we would not be where we are today without their support!”
Milia Lando and Rosa Dixon
BACKGROUND
Natural Decadence has created a delicious line of baked goods that are made without gluten, eggs, dairy, or nuts. Some of their products are also made without soy, or corn, because they understand the need for naturally decadent foods that are made without these ingredients.
Rest assured, they research all of their ingredients to ensure that they are processed in a gluten-free facility, so even moms of children with celiac disease can serve their products with confidence! They produce everything in small batches, ensuring the highest quality artisan baked goods! Everything is made from scratch with the highest quality ingredients that are always organic when possible.
CHALLENGES
In 2010 owners Rosa and Milia contacted the North Coast SBDC for assistance with obtaining a license to sell wholesale food, but the business was rapidly changing. Going into a full-scale production involved a lot of different plans; the financial plan, the marketing plan, and a business development plan.
ACTIONS
The North Coast SBDC provided guidance every step of the way, but it was Milia and Rosa who were so motivated and put forth every ounce of energy they have to make their business dream come true. The SBDC provided referrals to other agencies that could help, templates for calculating projections, and assigned specialists to assist with branding and market development. Rosa and Milia also participated in a unique program offered by the North CoastSBDC for Niche Food Manufacturers that enhanced their learning with industry-specific workshops, peer networking, and intensive counseling.
RESULTS
Natural Decadence is currently selling gluten free desserts in Whole Foods Markets, truly the epitome of many small business owners’ dreams of starting small in Humboldt County to reaching the greater market segments throughout the state of California. Rosa and Milia have eight employees, a beautiful commercial kitchen set-up, and increased sales by more than 60% in 2012.
