Meet Jennifer Swims | Cottage Baker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jennifer Swims and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
We raised our children in a self sustainable environment. Growing our own vegetables and raising (as well as showing and judging) our own meat. We realize not everyone has that luxury and were so thankful to be able to raise them that way. In 2007 I was bitten by a tick and developed Chronic Lyme Disease along with several autoimmune issues like POTS, MCAS and seizures. This was a major setback in my lifestyle and consessions had to be made to function. Fighting to regain my health brought me even deeper down a path of healthy living. I began meeting so many people in similar situations. This allowed me to share so much information that I had learned over the years. Many of these people don’t have the time to make all the necessary changes, like grinding their own wheat, or taking care of a starter for their sourdough bread or even taking the time to make the bread (which can be time consuming) . So the journey began and Bee Still Farms was born simply by supplying bread to those in need. It continues to grow for that same reason.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Bee Still Farms came about after I fought to regain my health from Chronic Lyme Disease. I offer small batch, handmade sourdough and nostalgic treats that begins with freshly ground organic wheat. All of my products are organic or high quality if organic is not available. I make sure that my products are free from additives like folic acid, which many of my clients cannot have with the MTHFR gene mutation, along with glysophates that cause issues with people that are sensitive to gluten products, to sulfites that cause problems for many of us with autoimmune issues.
There are many bakers out there offering similar products but my relationship with my clients is most important. They are not customers to me. They are my friends and family.
It is hard work and I do have to make sure I take care of myself and not overdo it but being able to help people enjoy foods that they thought they would never get to have again makes it all worth it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Living in the country has it perks. The quiet, calm rythm of nature relaxes guests allowing them to “fill their cup” while enjoying the fresh air in the mountains. Most come to relax and just sit by the fire. When we venture out I do like to visit Bell Mountain in Hiawassee. The view is breathtaking. Helen is always a must to visit. During the fall season there are so many festivals like The Moonshine Festival in Dawsonville that has the best car show, The Apple Festival in Ellijay where you can go apple picking in the orchards and the Marble Festival in Jasper. Our community puts on a Jeepfest that benefits local needy families. Our little town is growing and has the best boutiques and locally owned restaurants, distillery and breweries. We are big on supporting local small business owners like ourselves.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I credit all my success to the Lord. Everything that I do is to give glory to him. My husband, who I couldn’t do life without, is my biggest fan and supporter. He reels me back in when I get too many ideas going all at once and is my favorite taste tester. My best friend and sister Marie who encourages me and cheers for me. She would have me in a storefront selling all over the state if I’d let her. My whole family, who encouraged me every step of the way. So many people in my community have been incredible and supportive of this journey. I don’t know what I would do without my dear friend and sounding board Kate. She keeps me grounded.

Website: https://app.simply-bread.co/beestillfarms/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/bee.still.farms

Facebook: https://facebook.com/beestillfarms

Image Credits
None. Cellphone photos of mine.