In this series, we talk to people who turned their passion for food and baking into a business idea amidst lockdown and COVID-19 fears. Some have been in the market for years and others saw the new opportunity and took it! These home businesses are changing the game and have overcome the odds of running a business during quarantine.  With increased restrictions once more, we talk to home bakers who are operating during these times to bring the sweet and savoury to your very own doorstep! 

A banker by profession, Manjula Hirdaramani moved back to Sri Lanka 3 years ago and embarked on a passion project – baking. Manju’s Bakerliciouz opened for business back in September 2019 and she’s been building a home-based venture ever since. “My youngest son came up with the name and logo to resonate with my personality and favourite colours! And now, with Manju’s Bakerliciouz, my banker to baker journey continues…” 

What do you offer?

A range of cakes, bakes and desserts. They are exotic and we offer tantalising flavours to suit a diverse flavour palate. Some of our customer favourites and best-sellers are our Triple Chocolate cake, Espresso and Kahlua cake, Dark chocolate salted caramel cake, Ribbon cake and others! 

What is it like running your operations in times like these? 

It was a time that allowed creativity and I was grateful that Sri Lanka commenced and adopted online platforms fairly quickly, which permitted ingredients and delivery options to be delivered right to your doorstep.

How are you ensuring the proper hygiene measures are taken in preparation and delivery?

Safety of our products is of utmost importance and I make these items myself to ensure safety and hygiene is guaranteed. If it is not good for my family, it is not good for my customers.

What do you enjoy about baking and operating your own home baking business?

It gives me the opportunity to be creative and create works of art that I’m proud of. If the final outcome is not of the high standard I set for myself, then it will not be going to my customer. Operating from home also means I have the flexibility to work around my family who are my No.1 priority.

How do you see home bakers going forward post-Covid? 

These pandemic times create new opportunities and the ability for new thinking and I’m grateful for my business’s success in spite of times of adversity. My business has grown a lot during this time. At times, sourcing ingredients can be a challenge, however, there are so many vendors around and it’s really about knowing which one to go for which product. As for home bakers going forward, I see us going from success to greater success as consumers are now more comfortable in sourcing what they want from home bakers rather than big businesses so they know it’s safe. 

What’s in store for your brand in 2022?

2022 will see additions to our already vast list of delectable goodies and a few surprises along the way. Stay tuned!

What would you say is your signature style in baking? 

Baking that is superior in taste, it’s not just about the look, but the taste. While look and taste complement each other, I believe it is the taste that resonates the most and gives you a lasting memory.

Any advice to anyone who wants to start their own business?

If baking is something you are passionate about, don’t’ be afraid to give it a go. However, it requires, thinking, planning and identifying the internal and external factors that can contribute to its success and having specific plans and measures to deal with them.