How would you describe your business in one sentence? 
For everyone who loves great food.
When did you launch and who is behind it?
I launched Take a Bite and Smile two years ago at Northcote Road Market. Behind it is a girl with a dream: to create delicious, traditional pastries—but plant-based.
When did your ‘lightbulb moment’ happen?
My lightbulb moment happened when I secured a spot at the market for my business, and it was close enough for me to reach by bicycle. Having a place so close to home gave me the confidence to fully commit, knowing I could connect with customers directly and consistently. Looking back, it was the launchpad that turned my vision into reality.
What did you do prior to starting your business?
Before starting Take a Bite and Smile, I spent 10 years working as a customer and marketing manager in an IT company. That experience taught me a lot about understanding customer needs, building strong brand connections, and managing the challenges of running a business. Those skills have been invaluable as I’ve transitioned into the world of plant-based baking and growing my own brand.
What were three of the most challenging aspects of setting up your business?
Setting up Take a Bite and Smile came with plenty of challenges. First, I had to quickly adapt to wearing multiple hats, from production to finance. Second, sourcing high-quality, sustainable plant-based ingredients was harder than I’d expected. Lastly, building a customer base took time and patience, but it’s been incredibly rewarding.
What makes Take a Bite and Smile unique?
Take a Bite and Smile is unique because it offers traditional Italian pastries reimagined as delicious plant-based treats. We focus on using high-quality ingredients to create classic flavours that are accessible to everyone, including those with dietary restrictions. We also offer gluten-free and soy-free options. Each product is crafted with love and care.
What inspired you to go vegan, when did you do so and what are some of the benefits?
I was inspired to adopt a more plant-based diet after noticing how much processed food we consume today, often with low-quality animal ingredients. Our grandparents didn’t have access to such abundance, and I believe it’s important to eat less of those processed foods and focus more on plant-based options, ideally handmade. This shift not only benefits our health—for example, my pastries contain less cholesterol and fewer calories—so you can indulge in a treat without compromising on flavour.
How do you source your ingredients, and why is that important to you?
I source my ingredients from wholesale suppliers that offer high-quality products at competitive prices. This is important to me because it allows me to maintain the quality of my pastries while keeping them affordable for my customers. I believe that everyone should have access to delicious, plant-based treats without breaking the bank, and sourcing from reliable suppliers helps me achieve that goal.
What is your bestselling vegan item, and what makes it a customer favourite?
My bestselling item is the Cannolo, which features a flaky puff pastry filled with different custards. It’s a customer favourite likely because of its simplicity and the nostalgic memories it evokes of time spent in Italy.
If you had the opportunity to do it all again, what would you do differently?
If I had the opportunity to do it all again, I would probably start my business sooner. I would also remind myself to relax more when facing mistakes, recognising that they are a natural part of the journey. It’s important to understand that a mistake doesn’t mean you have to quit; instead, it’s an opportunity to learn and grow.
What three tips would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?
- Listen to advice, but ultimately trust your gut
- You’ll never feel completely ready to start, so take that leap!
- Don’t forget to rest and seek help when you need it. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but taking care of yourself and leaning on others can make a significant difference in your journey.
What are some common myths about vegan food that you’d like to debunk?
- Vegan food is boring: Many people think that plant-based meals lack variety or flavour, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are countless delicious and diverse options, from traditional recipes to innovative new dishes.
- You can’t get enough protein or calcium on a vegan diet: Many believe that plant-based diets don’t provide sufficient nutrients. In reality, foods like Tahini have more calcium than Parmigiano Reggiano, and they contain no cholesterol. It’s essential to be aware of the variety of foods available to us and how to balance our plates before considering supplements or medications for issues like high cholesterol.
- You have to be vegan to enjoy vegan food: Some people think that if they’re not vegan, they shouldn’t eat vegan food. In reality, a vegan diet can serve as a base for everyone. Just like you can enjoy an Apple if you aren’t vegan, you can also enjoy rice if you aren’t celiac!
Do you live in Wandsworth and if so where?
Yes, Battersea.
Name your favourite independent shop in the borough.
My favourite independent shop is Chalkboard, a family-run toy shop on Northcote Road. It’s always a joy to browse their fun and educational toys, and the owners are incredibly friendly, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I love supporting local businesses like theirs that focus on quality and creativity!
Finish this sentence: I like being based in Wandsworth because…
I like being based in Wandsworth because it offers a vibrant community atmosphere with a mix of local markets, parks, and great eateries. The supportive environment for small businesses, along with the friendly locals, creates a welcoming space that makes daily life enjoyable.