| Tell us about your company: |
| Gifted Breads is a women-owned artisan bakery based in Chicago. What began in a local food incubator has grown into a company with products now available nationwide. From the start, our goal has been to create bread that delivers the same joy and experience as traditional bread—without sacrificing taste or texture. Our breads are baked to be crunchy on the outside and soft and airy on the inside, while remaining free from gluten, dairy, soy, nuts, seed oils, and artificial preservatives. We focus on quality ingredients and artisanal craft so people can enjoy bread that tastes authentic while using better-for-you ingredients. |
| What inspired you to start your business? |
| My inspiration for starting Gifted Breads came from a personal place: I was diagnosed with celiac disease, which fundamentally changed how I approached food and health. At the time, the options in the United States were disappointing—most gluten-free breads were filled with artificial preservatives, made with seed oils, and tasted more like cardboard than real bread. I wanted to change that. My vision was simple yet ambitious: to create bread that tasted just like a traditional baguette—golden, crusty, and airy on the inside—but without gluten and made from wholesome ingredients with no compromises on flavor or quality. The foundation in law and business principles that I gained during my time at Northwestern proved instrumental in bringing this vision to life. They gave me the tools to transform a personal need into a thriving company, built on strategy, discipline, and purpose. |
| What are your proudest achievements so far? |
| I’m proud both of our tangible milestones and the culture we’ve nurtured: ** Strategic Retail Launches**: Debuted in Whole Foods in 2020—an exceptional validation of our quality and vision. Began supplying Hannah’s Bretzel with gluten-free breads in 2022, broadening our reach to more consumers. Launching nationally in Sprouts in September 2025—a major expansion that marks a new chapter for the brand. ** Team Building & Culture**: Welcomed a Northwestern-alum co-founder in 2024—someone who understands and shares the drive, the values, and the mission behind Gifted Breads. Established a diverse, collaborative team that rejects the “hostile kitchen” stereotype—we support each other, foster growth, and maintain respect and kindness at every level. These accomplishments reflect not just external growth, but also our internal strength and commitment to doing things the right way—from product to people. |
| What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs: |
| Entrepreneurship is an ongoing learning journey. Each time you reach a goal, a new one appears on the horizon. Things rarely go exactly as planned, so it’s important to have a strong support system and a team that can adapt and handle change. If possible, have a partner or co-founder, or build a strong team—you cannot do everything on your own. |
| Please share a memory or thought about your alma mater: |
| I remember arriving on my first day in May for Kellogg classes, which started earlier. I immediately fell in love with the lake out front, the peaceful atmosphere, and the library with its incredible view. We were gathered in an auditorium filled with people from all over the world—different backgrounds, but shared values. The atmosphere was welcoming rather than competitive, and in that moment, I knew I had chosen the right school. |
Alumni Emporium 