My life changed dramatically in the summer of 2007 when my teenage son was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. I immediately thought about pasta, hamburgers, cookies, and his favorite, brownies-all foods he would have to give up as a result. We were both devastated! Things got worse in the next few weeks, when I too, was diagnosed with the same disease. Rather than dwell on the negatives of our diagnosis, I decided to channel my energies into something positive for my son and me.
Having recently retired from the financial world, I decided to pursue my passion for baking after finding that GF baked goods that tasted flavorful and delicious, were nearly impossible to find. After experimenting with different blends of flour in my kitchen at home, I finally came up with recipes for cookies, cupcakes, and most importantly, a brownie that everyone can enjoy!
With encouragement from my family and friends, I started Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery in April of 2009, dedicated to creating the most delicious gluten-free products that all those suffering from a gluten intolerance would enjoy, as well as those not affected by gluten, would also enthusiastically embrace. Eliminating gluten from my diet has had a tremendously positive effect on my health and overall well-being, and I have become a huge advocate in following a gluten-free lifestyle.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am married with 2 adult children.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am founder of Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery. I am passionate about helping the gluten free community be able to enjoy everyday moments and special occasions.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Fuller House and Country House.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Lived in Hinsdale since I was 2 years old and Sweet Ali’s has been in Hinsdale for 12 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Andrea Thome – author and human right advocate and one of the nicest people.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
It is a toss up; I love to travel. Italy and take baking classes or visit beaches in Thailand.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
NCIS – I watched this every worknight with my dad, a very fond memory.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Life is too important to be taken seriously. Take a breath and enjoy every moment.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Sail in Mediterranean Sea
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Roxy music, Red hot Chili Peppers
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Piccadilly Restaurant
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Michelle Obama – Fuller House
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Long term loyalty to the community.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Continue to grow the Sweet Ali’s business and travel.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I raced sailboats as a teenager.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Cinco de Mayo
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A margarita, a sailboat, a beautiful beach with family and friends.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Berne Brown
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
A good steak and garlic bread
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, Friends and good food.
