Michelle Nicholson, owner of The Flour Girl Bakery, found her passion for sourdough bread during a visit to King Arthur in Vermont, where she thought, "I want to do this." However, as her business idea blossomed, Michelle realized that turning her love for baking into a sustainable venture required more than skill in the kitchen. That’s when she turned to the Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC).
Guidance and Growth with CTSBDC
Michelle has been working with CTSBDC business advisor Michelle Augustyn since the fall of 2020, establishing a long-term and trusted partnership. At the time, Michelle was operating as a cottage food baker, making and selling bread from her home, with annual sales of $22,585, and running the business on her own. With Michelle Augustyn’s guidance, they developed a detailed business plan and financial projections to help secure financing for her dream of expanding into a commercial bakery location. Over the years, this collaboration has led to significant milestones, including approvals for a $15K business credit card, a $20K line of credit, and a $36K loan through Berkshire Bank. Their ongoing relationship continues to support Michelle’s growth and success.
While her bakery was under construction, an unexpected opportunity arose—Michelle had the chance to purchase a nearby coffee shop and lunch café. Michelle Augustyn assisted her in evaluating the business, preparing a valuation, and considering negotiation strategies. In the fall of 2021, Michelle, the owner, finalized the purchase of the café for $155K through a seller financing arrangement, even before her bakery officially opened.
People hired
45
Capital Access
$71,000
A Path to Success
Reflecting on her experience being helped by CTSBDC, Michelle Nicholson shared, "I don't know how I would've done it without her." Since working with CTSBDC, Michelle has expanded her bakery, acquired the café, and launched an event space called The Dooryard. Over the past few years, she has continued to work closely with Michelle Augustyn, revisiting business plans, expanding operations, and revising financial projections. Michelle is also navigating another expansion of the café, set to be completed in early 2025.
Her hard work has paid off, as her 2023 sales reached $1,246,365, and she now employs 45 people—an incredible achievement in just four short years.
A Flourishing Future
Looking ahead, Michelle is excited to continue growing her business and making an even bigger impact on the local community, with her CTSBDC Advisor's assistance every step.
A Passionate Business Winning Big
Beyond her business growth, The Flour Girl Bakery has earned numerous accolades. Michelle Nicholson was awarded the Silver Medal and People's Choice Award at the World Bread Awards 2022. Her bakery has also been recognized as the Best Breakfast in Tolland County's Best Coffee Shop in Connecticut. Also, in 2024, she has been recognized as one of the 40 under 40 in the Hartford Business Journal this year, 2024.
Michelle's bakery is set to thrive and grow even further!
