Meet Cassandra Hunsdon | Baker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cassandra Hunsdon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cassandra, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started my business on a whim as a way to get myself out of a challenging time in my life. In September 2020, I was struggling with depression from chronic health issues, the impact and isolation of the pandemic, and the stress of getting off disability after taking a few years off to focus on my health. I decided I needed to do something different—something I could control due to my fluctuating health. I have always made and created things to share with others, so it occurred to me that this may be something I could do for a business. And since I am gluten-free and these baked goods are so hard to find, it seemed like gluten-free baking was the area I should focus on. It all unfolded rather quickly—I filed for a business license and started selling at a farmers market and local wineries within a month.

What should our readers know about your business?
I was never able to find anything truly delicious and gluten-free (gf), and the treats I did try were always underwhelming and somewhat disappointing. When you have food allergies or sensitivities, you still want something delicious that doesn’t skimp on flavor and richness! Given my allergy to gluten, I had already spent years finding the best gf flour and changing recipes to meet my needs. And for my business, I just do this for others! Surprisingly, many of my customers aren’t even gluten-free—which means my treats are that good! I pride myself in the small details—the presentation, the packaging and interactions with others during delivery.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I grew up in Willcox, Arizona (on a farm, so I’m actually a farmer’s daughter!) so there are many places I enjoy in Southern Arizona. I would take them into the Patagonia mountains to enjoy my favorite creek-side birding spots. I would also take them to my favorite small businesses in the area: Dos Cabezas Winery, The Meading Room, Rune Wines, and Patagonia Lumber Co, to name a few. I’d show them around the sweet, little town of Patagonia and we’d stop by The Gathering Grounds to get a latte for the road and some snacks from Red Mountain Foods.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I could not have done any of this without the support of my family and the community. I have 6 siblings and I rely on them every day for some form of support—a call, a text, and some will drive 2.5 hours to help at an event. Their love and encouragement keeps me going. As for the local community and businesses, they have really continually given me a platform to sell my baked goods. This support has been incredibly encouraging, motivating, and just downright heartwarming.

Website: www.farmersdaughteraz.com

Instagram: farmersdaughteraz

Image Credits
Shannon Christine @shannonchristinephoto