Episode 21 - Bakery and Catering Logistics with Bridget Rathwell

In this episode of Zebras to Apples, host Bryndis Whitson talks with Bridget Rathwell, a culinary entrepreneur who turned her lifelong love of cooking into several successful food ventures. Growing up in a family where food and hospitality were central, Bridget learned the importance of homemade, nourishing meals, and now shares the traditions taught to her by her mother through her meal-prep service and Indian cooking classes.  

Bridget began with a bakery that offered homemade desserts, coffee, and daily take-home dinners, then, as demand grew, she expanded into catering and created a line of jarred curry/simmer sauces. She sold at farmers' markets and through retail stores. These operations required careful logistics. She and Bryndis discuss the intricacies of sourcing quality spices free of radiation treatment from Montreal, managing commercial kitchen production, maintaining food freshness, and transporting hot meals. Today, Bridget focuses on meal prep and the Indian cooking classes that happen right in client homes. She tailors menus to dietary needs such as gluten-free, keto, or low-carb. Her passion is for homemade, wholesome meals, which her husband, who is her business partner, and children, her taste testers, help make come true for a real family business.