THIRD COAST BAKERY

The Owner: Heather Burson

The Story: In 2013, Heather had a family member with cancer going through chemo, which made regular food become toxic. Motivated to give her family a moment of joy, she overhauled every recipe in the book. “I didn’t know what gluten was, that refined sugars were bad, trans fats, artificial this and artificial that.” Armed with new information, she realized there was literally nothing available. She took a back-to-basics approach, making guilty pleasure goodies with strict, healthy ingredients. Her ultimate test: they must taste just as good as the bad stuff! Sampling every week to her test tribe of ladies, it led to sold out farmers markets and she soon outgrew many kitchens. As her business exploded, she’d stumbled upon a superpower: changing people’s lives one cupcake at a time.

Today: 2023 celebrates 5 years from opening her brick-and-mortar location in 2018 and tenth anniversary of the company. Third Coast

Bakery is an allergen-safe bakery, creating 100% gluten, dairy and soy free products. She ships to all 50 states, and her packaged goods are distributed in stores locally, in Cadillac, and as far as Flint. Faithful clients drive endless miles to get these treasured treats and to spread joy for loved ones that suffer with debilitating allergies. They bring smiles and a feeling of normalcy to all. Everyone can eat cake and not be left out of the party!

What’s Next? Heather shared that a new product line is in the works, after that… “Top secret. I can’t tell you yet!” It must be big.

Fun Facts:

They make specialty cakes for birthdays and weddings.

All their treats are completely dairy-free.

They use ONLY certified gluten-free ingredients.

Outside they have an urban butterfly garden to attract pollinators.

Old Mission Peninsula

by Tyler Leipprandt of Michigan Sky Media

Spring time on Old Mission Peninsula has to be one of the most magical times of the year. Life returns to the orchards and rolling hills, and Cherry Blossoms can be seen and smelled everywhere. This photo was taken near Black Star Farms and is looking North and Power Island can be seen towards the left of the photo.

michiganskymedia.com @michiganskymedia

STYLE

Bailey Parawood Counter Stool $329

Homeworks, Traverse City Homeworksinteriors.store

“Kitchens should be designed around what’s truly important – fun, food, and life.”