This weekend was totally surreal. We were sought out and invited to be a part of the illustrious @bagelfest’s inaugural Growth Lab — a low-pressure, pretty-damn-fun incubator event with nine other cottage/pop-up bagel bakers from around the country (and Canada!). Some incredible bakers and industry pros were there as mentors to provide feedback on our bagels and branding. I think we were the only non-bagel-specific bakery there, which felt pretty damn special. Like, why me? Why us? When asked where we’re selling our bagels, I awkwardly told these amazing people that, well, we’re not… yet But guys, I’m so damn proud of these bagels. So damn proud to have been a part of this. So damn proud to have been in such incredible company. So damn proud to have already gotten some feedback that frankly made me cry. I’m just. Wow. Just, wow. Many many thanks to @revathebreadconsultant, @roryelizabethh, @bagelambassador, and everyone else @bagelfest. @artisanbryan for teaching me how to make sourdough bagels years ago, @jess.breads for showing me there was another way, @joshfox_bread_ for timing tips, and @serhan_ayhan for the @oonihq mixer help. @raykeilman for being my biggest fan and partner (and designer — notice the logo glow-up??) And everyone who’s bought our bread over the last 8.5 years. Let’s keep learning, let’s keep growing ❤️