Southern Roots Vegan Bakery was founded in 2019 by husband and wife duo, Marcus and Cara Pitts. Our story began when Marcus pivoted towards a plant-based lifestyle, inspiring us to redefine traditional baking. With Cara's lifelong baking skills and Marcus's fresh plant-based perspective, we set out to create vegan desserts without sacrificing flavor. Cara left her corporate career to care for her beloved grandmother, Mary Lee, who became our original taste tester, ensuring every treat met the gold standard of flavor. Now Mary Lee is a young 100 years old and loves the success of her Mary Lee's Lemon Cake from Southern Roots!
Starting with sharing our unique treats with loved ones, we soon sensed their universal appeal. We joined a 10-week culinary accelerator Break, Fast & Launch, honing our business skills. Debuting at farmers' markets, our desserts quickly became a hit among vegans and non-vegans alike.
After a blessed encounter with New York Times Best-Selling author and vegan icon, Tabitha Brown, at a vegan festival, she championed our products on her platform. This endorsement, combined with media attention, led to an overwhelming surge in orders—virtually overnight!
Southern Roots is more than just a bakery; we're pioneers in the vegan dessert landscape. It’s heartwarming to know children with allergies can safely relish our treats.
Given Cara's experience in caregiving, we're passionate about senior care. We aim to collaborate with senior care homes, bringing our desserts to nursing homes and hospitals nationwide. We firmly believe that everyone, regardless of age, should enjoy quality desserts.
Since our inception in 2019, we've hit remarkable milestones. We've been honored with consecutive nominations for "Best Vegan Bakery" in the country by VegNews. Our brand has been highlighted by esteemed outlets like Oprah Daily, Good Morning America, Vice, and Live Kindly, and we've received accolades such as PETA's award for Best Sweet Potato Pie.
Southern Roots Vegan Bakery's donuts, cookies, cupcakes, and cakes are not only featured in local coffee shops, prominent hotels, and restaurants nationwide but are also available for nationwide shipping for any occasion. Knowing the challenges of traveling on a plant-based diet and the lack of convenient sweet snacks, we're focused on expanding our presence in hotels. Our goal is to ensure travelers can easily access our plant-based desserts and ice cream in hotel grab-and-go sections. Also look for us soon on your retail shelves!
Now as we propel our vision forward we are asking you for help!
We're kicking off a crowdfunding campaign with a target of $100,000. These funds will empower us to open a dedicated Southern Roots production facility, amplify our team, and secure advanced equipment and resources.
Currently, Southern Roots operates from a shared venue. Securing our own space is crucial for our growth aspirations. This is where platforms like iFundWomen come into play, and we deeply appreciate every contribution made.
Our vision extends beyond just enlarging our footprint in the foodservice and retail realms. We see our brand being a staple in colleges, stadiums, and more! We aim to diversify our dessert lineup, accelerate deliveries, and set up a standalone Southern Roots Vegan outlet with a goal of franchising in the future.
By supporting our campaign, you're championing the idea that dietary preferences shouldn't diminish the joy of desserts. Let's together shape the future of Southern Roots Vegan Bakery, making indulgence accessible and delightful for all. Your faith in our dream is deeply appreciated.
