Murphy One of the most common cottage industries is making baked goods to sell. Despite this being a common option in the field, bakers continue to find ways to make their businesses stand out in unique ways.
Shiela Hudson has combined her love of baking and her farm, Newfound Meadows, to bring the community baked goods, and more, made with fresh ingredients.
“I’ve spent a lot of my adulthood baking, trying new recipes, and seeing what works. I’ve been growing my own vegetables for years, and recently discovered the world of sourdough, so I’ve found ways to bring what I grow into what I bake,” Hudson said.
Newfound Meadows began as a hobby garden that has grown over time.
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“I’ve added more raised beds, more plants in pots, and more varieties of plants. Everything at Newfound Meadows Farm has continued to grow, not just the plants,” Hudson said.
The two hobbies continued to grow together until they had meshed together. The farm helps provide items for baking and selling baked goods helps Hudson to continue building the farm.
One of Hudson’s most popular items for sale is her Elderberry products, including a tincture to help combat cold and flu season naturally.
“I wanted to try and grow what others in the area don’t sell at the farmer’s markets in the area and other vendor events. Elderberry was a product that I didn’t see a lot of, so I decided to fill that gap,” she said.
Hudson maintains her garden and baking business year-round, along with working a full-time job.
“It’s hard work and sometimes feels impossible, but I love what I grow,” she said, “and I love what I can create from what I’ve grown.”
Part of what drew Hudson to baking as an adult is getting to create and try new recipes.
“My favorite part of baking is experimenting with new ideas, but the hardest part is hoping that those ideas don’t flop,” she said.
Newfound Meadows Farm participates in farmers markets in Andrews and Murphy, along with other events. Baked goods for the holidays include pecan and walnut nut rolls, cinnamon raisin rolls, strawberries and cream rolls, pumpkin whoopee pies, a variety of sourdough products such as cinnamon rolls and pizza dough, jellies made from products grown on the farm, freeze-dried candies, gluten-free baked goods and specialty Elderberry products.
Details: Visit Newfound Meadows Farms LLC on Facebook, call 727-858-9546 or email newfoundmeadows@yahoo.com.