By: Dylan Grant
Riana de Nysschen recognizes the need for healthier alternatives to desserts served in today’s market. As a breast cancer survivor, maintaining a chemical and preservative free diet was critical to the treatment of her own illness. With the support of her family, Riana will soon be serving up wholesome desserts, made from the heart, at her very own Sweet Zulu Bakeshop in Paso Robles.
“Life is short. I learned that very quickly,” said Riana. “The force that drives me is to make people happy.”
When Riana was diagnosed in 2006, organic and vegan desserts available on market shelves lacked the flavor and texture she needed to remedy her sweet tooth. With dietary restrictions in mind she decided, “If I want something sweet, I’m going to make it.”
From charming cupcakes to meringue-based macarons, Riana’s batches soon became more than her family alone could handle. She would brighten the day of lucky friends and colleagues with baked giveaways. It wasn’t long before Riana’s sweets gained a renowned reputation. As requests rolled in for birthday cakes and custom orders, she could no longer afford to give her desserts away for free.
“People started calling us in the evenings, really any time of the day, asking when we were going to open our shop,” she said.
This September, Small Business Development Center (SBDC) client Sweet Zulu Bakeshop will open its doors to share a smile and some sugar. In addition to serving a wide range of delicious desserts, visitors can also expect breakfast and lunch items that ring true to Riana’s South African heritage. As a healthier alternative to typical treats, Sweet Zulu crafts every recipe from locally sourced, all-natural ingredients for superior quality and taste.
“Everyone is overwhelmed when starting a business,” said Riana. “The SBDC is wonderful in making sure you get the right people to help you.”
The SBDC provides the resources and mentorship needed to help small businesses grow. Armed with no cost professional business consultants from a variety of industries, the SBDC is prepared to foster local innovation.
“Now that I have a storefront it feels like a baby,” said Riana. “I’m excited to be a part of a community and to serve people.”
Drop by the Sweet Zulu Bakeshop or place your orders online. http://www.sweetzulubakeshop.com/
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