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Welcome to another edition of our Member Spotlight Series on the Madison Mompreneur blog! This series will help you get to know the members of Madison Mompreneur as we ask them questions about their personal and professional life as moms who own businesses in the Madison, Alabama area.
We are continuing this series with the spotlight on Lindsey Barron, Owner of Rocket City Mom!
Tell us about yourself and your business! I’m Lindsey Barron, and I’m the owner of Rocket City Mom.
How does your business help people? Rocket City Mom helps North Alabama families thrive. Through our website, www.rocketcitymom.com, we provide free, reliable, and hyperlocal parenting resources to support families at every stage. From our comprehensive event calendar and seasonal guides to education tools, local business spotlights, and community stories, we connect parents and caregivers with the information they need to make informed decisions. Whether it’s finding a fun weekend activity, choosing the right school, or navigating parenting challenges, Rocket City Mom empowers families with access, support, and connection in their local community.
How long have you lived in the Madison area? I have lived in Madison County for 40 years.
What inspired you to start your business? As a long-time advocate for families and children in North Alabama, I saw Rocket City Mom as more than just a website, it was a trusted lifeline for parents in our community. I was inspired to purchase Rocket City Mom because I deeply believe in the power of connection, information, and local support. As a mom of a large, blended family and someone who has spent decades working with nonprofits, I understand firsthand how valuable it is to have access to reliable resources during every stage of parenthood. I wanted to ensure Rocket City Mom not only continued serving families but also expanded its reach, grew its impact, and remained a voice for those navigating both the joys and challenges of raising children in our region.
What sets your business apart from others in the industry? What sets Rocket City Mom apart is our deep-rooted connection to the community we serve. Unlike national parenting websites, we are hyperlocal and personally invested in North Alabama families. Our content is created by local parents, for local parents, which means we understand their unique needs, challenges, and opportunities. We don’t just share information; we build relationships, amplify underrepresented voices, and advocate for resources that make a real difference. With over a decade of trust, a robust online presence, and genuine partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and small businesses, Rocket City Mom is more than a resource, we’re a reliable companion in the parenting journey.
What do you consider to be your biggest success so far? Our biggest success has been building and sustaining a trusted, free resource that truly makes a difference in the lives of North Alabama families. Since taking ownership, we’ve expanded our reach, deepened community partnerships, and kept local parenting content accessible to all, regardless of income or background. One of our proudest achievements is being recognized with the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce Community Impact Award, which affirmed that our mission to connect, support, and uplift families is not only working, but valued. Seeing the direct impact of our work, whether it’s a parent finding the perfect school, a local event reaching new audiences, or a small business thriving through our promotion, reminds us daily that our success is shared with the community we serve.
How does your business contribute to the local community? Rocket City Mom contributes to the local community by serving as a bridge between families and the resources they need to thrive. We spotlight local events, schools, nonprofits, and small businesses, giving them a platform to reach parents and caregivers across North Alabama. Our free event calendar, seasonal guides, and educational content make it easier for families to stay connected, informed, and engaged. Beyond digital resources, we also host and support in-person events that bring the community together, from learning conferences to family festivals. By amplifying local voices, advocating for children and families, and partnering with mission-driven organizations, Rocket City Mom plays an active role in strengthening the fabric of our region.
How do you see your business evolving in the next 5-10 years? In the next 5-10 years, I see Rocket City Mom evolving into an even more dynamic hub for parenting support across North Alabama. We’ll continue to innovate digitally, with a more robust mobile experience, inclusive content, and deeper engagement through video, podcasts, and interactive tools. At the heart of it all, our mission will remain the same: to serve families with empathy, elevate local voices, and champion causes that improve the quality of life for children and parents. As communities grow and change, so will we, always grounded in local impact and authentic connection.
Who are your typical customers and how do they find you? Our typical audience includes parents, caregivers, and educators in North Alabama, especially those looking for trustworthy, local information to support their families. From new moms searching for pediatricians to seasoned parents navigating school choices, our readers span every stage of the parenting journey. Many find us through organic Google searches, social media, word-of-mouth referrals, and community partnerships. Our searchable event calendar, school and camp guides, and timely local features make us a go-to resource. We’re proud that once families discover Rocket City Mom, they tend to stay with us throughout their parenting years and often recommend us to others in their circle.
What do you enjoy most about running your business? What I enjoy most about running Rocket City Mom is knowing that the work we do truly matters to families in our community and getting to do that work alongside an amazing team. Every day, I’m inspired by the passion, creativity, and dedication of the people behind Rocket City Mom. We’re not just co-workers, we’re fellow parents, advocates, and community-builders who genuinely care about making life a little easier and more joyful for the families we serve. Collaborating with this incredible team to uplift local voices, support small businesses, and connect parents to valuable resources is both a privilege and a joy. It’s the people, both on our team and in our community, that make this work so rewarding.
How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes? Staying current is essential in the fast-paced world of digital media and parenting resources. At Rocket City Mom, we stay up-to-date with industry trends by actively engaging with other leaders in local journalism, parenting networks, and digital publishing. We regularly attend professional conferences, and track analytics and reader feedback to guide content decisions. We also stay closely connected to our community, listening to what families need, what topics they’re talking about, and what resources they’re seeking. This combination of data, dialogue, and professional development helps us adapt quickly, stay relevant, and continue delivering content that truly serves our readers.
What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a business in your industry? My biggest piece of advice is to start with service, know who your audience is and how you can genuinely help them. In this industry, trust is everything. If you’re building a parenting resource or local media platform, be prepared to show up consistently, listen to your community, and deliver value without expecting instant returns. Build relationships with local organizations, small businesses, and families, you’ll grow stronger together. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of adaptability; digital trends, algorithms, and reader needs evolve quickly, so stay curious and willing to pivot. And finally, surround yourself with a passionate team. A mission-driven, supportive crew makes all the difference when you’re juggling deadlines, community expectations, and the demands of entrepreneurship.
What product/service would you like for us to highlight at this time? We’d love to highlight our free community Event Calendar, the most comprehensive family-friendly calendar in North Alabama. It’s the go-to resource for parents looking for things to do, from free festivals and library programs to camps, classes, and seasonal fun. Local businesses and organizations can also submit their events for free, making it a win-win for both families and community partners. Promoting this calendar helps families stay connected and engaged while supporting the organizations that make North Alabama a great place to raise kids.
Do you involve your kids in your business? If yes, how so? Yes, absolutely, I love involving my children in Rocket City Mom! They often help prepare for events, assist behind the scenes, and volunteer alongside me at community activities. It’s important to me that they see the value of hard work, service, and giving back. Being part of the Rocket City Mom journey has given them a front-row seat to what it means to support your community and be a voice for others. It’s become a family mission, and I’m proud that they’re learning how to make a positive impact while also sharing in the fun and connection that comes with this work.
What do you find is the most difficult part of balancing motherhood and business life? The most difficult part is feeling like there’s never enough of me to go around. As a mom and a business owner, I’m constantly juggling priorities, and it can be hard to give 100% to both at the same time. There are moments when work needs my full attention, and others when my family needs me more, and navigating that push and pull can be challenging. The guilt that comes with missing a school event or delaying a project deadline is real. But I’ve learned to give myself grace, set boundaries, and focus on being present wherever I am. I remind myself that I’m modeling resilience, passion, and purpose for my kids, and that’s something I’m proud of.
What business in the Madison Area is your favorite? That’s a tough question because we’re lucky to have so many amazing businesses in the Madison area! But one of my favorites is Kids to Love. They’re not only great at what they do, but they also care deeply about the community – finding forever families for children in our community. I love supporting local businesses that give back, create welcoming spaces for families, and bring something special to our area. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, shopping small, or partnering on events, it’s those community-driven businesses that make Madison feel like home.
Do you have a business bestie? Yes, I absolutely have a business bestie, and I’m so thankful for her! Having someone who understands the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, celebrates the wins, and talks you through the tough moments is invaluable. We bounce ideas off each other, collaborate when we can, and remind each other to take breaks and keep our priorities in check. It’s not just about business it’s about having someone in your corner who gets it. Every entrepreneur needs that kind of support system, and I’m lucky to have found mine.
Anything else you would like for us to highlight? We’d love for you to highlight that Rocket City Mom is more than a website, it’s a mission-driven community resource. Everything we do is rooted in supporting families, lifting up local voices, and creating meaningful connections across North Alabama. We’re proud to offer free access to parenting content, inclusive family guides, and platforms for small businesses and nonprofits to thrive. Whether you’re a brand-new parent or a long-time local, Rocket City Mom is here to walk alongside you. And we’re always growing, so stay tuned for new events, partnerships, and regional expansions that continue to put families first.
Where can people find you? www.rocketcitymom.com
Thanks for reading! If Lindsey’s experience as a mom and business owner resonates with you, we want to hear from you in the comments! And if you are a mom and business owner in Madison, Alabama email us at madisonmompreneur@gmail.com. to be featured in a future Member Highlight post!
September 24, 2025
Running your own business as a mom is a powerful act of courage. You’re building something from the ground up while juggling school pickups, family schedules, and all the little fires that pop up in everyday life. Yet, despite your accomplishments, do you ever feel like you don’t belong in the entrepreneurial world? That any minute someone might “find out” you’re not as capable as you appear? That heavy feeling has a name: Imposter Syndrome.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is the belief that your achievements aren’t valid and that your success comes from luck or external factors instead of your skills and hard work. For mompreneurs, this can show up as doubting your ability to run a business while raising a family, comparing yourself to other business owners who seem to “have it all together”, and downplaying your wins—whether it’s landing a client, hosting a successful pop-up, or simply balancing your books.
Imposter syndrome can feel isolating and like it’s only happening to you. In actuality, studies show that 75%-85% of women experience it at some point. But for moms in business, it can feel even more debilitating when you’re navigating two (or more) full-time roles at once.
Why Mompreneurs Are Especially Vulnerable
Moms building home-based businesses often build their networks via social media, where business owners are most likely to just share their successes and none of their struggles. It can led a new mompreneur to feel like all the small businesses are thriving and that they are the only ones floundering. And while watching our mom + biz owners succeed can be inspiring, it also can create lead to comparison. Social media shows you the heavily filtered storefronts, curated workspaces, and thriving families. What you don’t see are the late nights, the fears, and the mistakes along the way.
Moms often feel added pressure to prove themselves, both as professionals and as caregivers. If your business doesn’t grow as quickly as you hoped, or if your house doesn’t look like a magazine, it’s easy to question your worth.
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
You don’t have to resign yourself to a life of feeling “not good enough”. Here are a couple ways to help you overcome imposter syndrome.
- Celebrate Small Wins
Keep a journal of your achievements, no matter how small. Did you finally register your LLC? Land your first client? Show up at a Madison Mompreneur coworking session even though you were nervous? Write it down! Success builds confidence. - Connect with Community
One of the best ways to silence imposter thoughts is to talk with other moms who understand. At Madison Mompreneur, our hybrid coworking sessions create space to share struggles and solutions. You’ll quickly realize you’re not alone. - Shift the Narrative
Instead of asking, “Who am I to do this?” try, “Who am I not to?” Your voice, perspective, and business fill a unique need in our community. Madison thrives because of diverse businesses like yours. - Invest in Support
Whether it’s childcare, bookkeeping help, or marketing services, outsourcing areas that drain you can free up energy for your strengths. Delegating isn’t weakness, it’s a smart business move. - Practice Self-Compassion
Remember: perfection isn’t the goal. Progress is. You can’t pour into your business or your family if you’re constantly criticizing yourself.
Imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear overnight, but it does lose power when you name it, share it, and take steps to challenge it. As a mompreneur in Madison, you are not “pretending.” You are building a legacy—for yourself, your family, and your community.
So the next time that inner voice whispers that you’re not enough, remind yourself: you are exactly where you’re supposed to be.
September 17, 2025
Welcome to another edition of our Member Spotlight Series on the Madison Mompreneur blog! This series will help you get to know the members of Madison Mompreneur as we ask them questions about their personal and professional life as moms who own businesses in the Madison, Alabama area.
We are continuing this series with the spotlight on Robin Dauma, Owners of Blue Apple Books and South & Pine retail stores!
Tell us about yourself and your business! I’m Robin Dauma, and I own Blue Apple Books and South & Pine.
How does your business help people? My dual storefront retail business helps the community by providing an inclusive, warm environment for shopping for books, gifts, and home decor. As a benefit corporation, I have instituted a community outreach component into the business which manifests in several different ways, including in-kind donations, providing event space for nonprofit groups (discounted or free), facilitating mentorships for creators, and spotlighing local artists and authors through displays and events.
How long have you lived in Madison? 24 years, 30 years total in the Huntsville area.
What inspired you to start your business? My own love for reading and for the feeling I got when visiting independent bookstores in other places, as well as my desire as a person and retired educator to help people have the support they need to grow their talents and abilities.
What sets your business apart from others in the industry? Small independent bookstores can meet the needs of customers in unique ways, so I’m always exploring options for helping customers have a great experience when they are in the store or shopping online. I welcome customer orders, try to find books that best fit our community, and work to connect authors and artists with those who can appreciate their work. As a store, we offer free gift wrapping, which customers appreciate, and a curated selection of books and locally made art, which helps us stand out.
What do you consider to be your biggest success so far? Meeting my sales goals for the 2024 holiday retail season!
How does your business contribute to the local community? We are still developing these roles, but as mentioned above, we have hosted several events for local authors and artists, are working with the school district to spotlight local student artists, provided space for local groups to meet, donated door prizes for several local events, and hope to continue to grow this aspect of the business in 2025.
How do you see your business evolving in the next 5-10 years? I hope we can sponsor some events with best-selling authors (perhaps in conjunction with the HMCPL board/Foundation), continue to grow our support of local creators, coordinating pop-up sales/book fairs at events and school libraries, and launch some book clubs.
Who are your typical customers and how do they find you? Our customers range in age and demographics, all over the spectrum! I’d say we do have a lot of 30-40 year olds who are shopping for books for both themselves and their children. Some customers were already customers of South & Pine, which has been in existence since 2019, and the bookstore customers have mostly found us via social media or word of mouth.
What do you enjoy most about running your business? I love the autonomy and creativity I’m able to demonstrate!
How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes? Reading bookseller publications and occasionally tuning into the weekly zoom call of the American Bookseller Association.
What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a business in your industry? Talk to owners, read, take a class, make sure you’re ready to be “book inventory poor” for a bit!
What product/service would you like for us to highlight at this time? Our event calendar is really full, and we encourage people to follow us on social media so they know about upcoming workshops and author events.
Do you involve your kids in your business? If yes, how so? Yes! My daughter Adrienne (age 30) is my graphic designer and I don’t know what I’d do without her. My son Alec (23) is living at home temporarily and he’s also become my best book inventory organizer and he and my husband also help with things around the store like changing light bulbs, etc.
What do you find is the most difficult part of balancing motherhood and business life? My kids are older, so this is a bit different than it would have been 10 years ago, but parenting young adult children is still challenging. I still have to make lists and reminders and make sure that I “switch off” my work brain so that I can have conversations with them and find time to make a special meal or just relax with my family.
What business in the Madison Area is your favorite? So hard to answer! I do love Main Street Cafe!
Anything else you would like for us to highlight? I am incredibly excited to be hosting NYT best-selling author and podcaster, Jen Hatmaker, on October 21 for a VIP Meet & Greet at the store, and then at Columbia High School that evening for a Keynote address, where she’ll be joined by local author and influencer Mary Katherine Backstrom. This event is co-sponsored by the Madison Arts Alliance, for which the event will serve as a fundraiser, and all tickets will include a signed copy of Jen’s memoir, Awake, which will be released in late September. We are also very excited to have some lovely seasonal merchandise on the South & Pine side, which we will continue to add to all through the fall and holiday seasons, as well as our selection of local art and books by local authors.
Where can people find you? Both stores are on Facebook at Blue Apple Books and South & Pine and Instagram @shopsouthandpine and @blueapplebookstore.
Thanks for reading! If Robin’s experience as a mom and business owner resonates with you, we want to hear from you in the comments! And if you are a mom and business owner in Madison, Alabama email us at madisonmompreneur@gmail.com. to be featured in a future Member Highlight post!
September 10, 2025
Owner: Lynette Wilson
About: The Wilson Legacy Group helps individuals and families plan for their future via term life insurance, home insurance, and auto insurance plans.
Phone Number: (256) 885-5439
September 8, 2025
Owner: Shelby Ashley
About: Shelby is a Fractional CFO who helps business owners keep more of what they earn by offering cash flow strategy and regular forecasts.
Phone Number: (256) 603-4178
September 3, 2025
Being a mom often means juggling work and kids at the same time. If you’re searching for the best places to work while kids play in Madison & Huntsville, Madison and nearby Huntsville offer a thoughtful mix of free spaces, community gems, and paid venues that make productivity possible while your kids stay entertained.
Free & Low-Cost Options in Madison & Huntsville
- Madison Public Library (Madison)
Would it be a list of favorite places to work from Madison Mompreneur without including the Madison Public Library?! A local favorite, the library is one of the best places in Madison to work while kids play especially if you want both indoor and outdoor options. It offers free access to Wi-Fi, quiet work areas, and an engaging children’s section filled with toys, books, and often story time sessions or designated play nooks. It’s an ideal spot to settle in with your laptop while little ones explore. The Children’s Garden provides an extra space to work while the kids play in a fenced-in space or for a little more freedom, kids can play on back patio musical instruments while you work at the outdoor tables. - Kid’s Kingdom at Dublin Memorial Park (Madison)
Recently renovated, Kid’s Kingdom is a free-access playground with soft-landing surfaces and fun, modern equipment. Pack a picnic blanket and nestle nearby with your device while your child enjoys the swings and slides. The newly added, large stall restrooms are also a huge plus for quick potty breaks with little ones. And if you’re visiting in the afternoon, prepare for the ice cream truck to drive by and tempt the whole family with frozen treats!- Pro Tip: Kid’s Kingdom has shaded benches near the slides—perfect for answering emails while your kids climb.
- Local Parks & Green Spaces in Madison and Huntsville
Madison’s Palmer Park & Sunshine Oaks playgrounds, neighborhood parks, and the pleasant Bradford Creek Greenway are great for low-cost outdoor breaks between work tasks. Over in Huntsville, enjoy the inclusive “Everybody Can Play” splash pad at Brahan Springs Park, or scenic strolls at Hays Nature Preserve. These parks offer ample open space to keep kids active while you monitor via phone or tablet.
Paid Play Spaces Where Parents Can Work
- Altitude Trampoline Park (Huntsville) Another local spot that has just had a facelift, Altitude is conveniently located for both Madison & Huntsville families on University Drive NW, right next to Target. This indoor trampoline park features wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, a trapeze, zip line, ninja-warrior-style obstacle courses, and a toddler-specific area that keeps the under 48″ crowd entertained and safe from bigger jumpers. With ample seating outside of the play zones, it’s a great pick for working solo or with a fellow mompreneur.
- Let’s Play (Huntsville) Also located on University Drive, Let’s Play is a spacious, space-themed indoor playground tailored for children ages 0–12. It features soft play structures, a cannon-ball shooting zone, a spider-web climb, and a net-obstacle course—offering variety, safety, and plenty of physical challenges. Play passes are available for 10 visits at a time so you can plan out your work + play schedule for the season on a budget.
- Urban Air Adventure & Trampoline Park (Huntsville) Just up to the road, across from MidCity, Urban Air is a great option for entertaining the bigger kids on break from school or on a long, rainy afternoon or weekend. Billed as more than just a trampoline spot—it’s a full-scale indoor adventure park with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, obstacle courses, tube-play structures, climbing elements, and even a Snapology classroom for STEAM-inspired fun.
- Flow (Huntsville) Huntsville families will love the convenience of Flow Huntsville on Drake Avenue delivering an expansive mix of aerial sports and adventure activities—including trampoline zones, air track courts, joust beams, and slack lines. Unlike Altitude, there is non-participant seating throughout the space so you can move with your child as they explore and play.
Unique Spots & Nature Escapes for Work + Play
- Monte Sano State Park (Huntsville)
A majestic mountaintop retreat offering picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, and playgrounds. It’s a dreamy spot for working remotely—work in the fresh air, then reward yourself and the kids with a nature hike or scenic overlook. - Monte Sano Nature Preserve (Huntsville)
With over 23 miles of trails through 1,100+ acres, this preserve is perfect for adventurous families—set up under a shady tree and work, or take a break and explore brief trail loops with the kids. - EarlyWorks Children’s Museum (Huntsville)
A hands-on museum where learning and play converge. While there isn’t formal coworking space, its interactive environment lets kids engage deeply while parents can work nearby—and then join in the fun during breaks. Many a mom has found a few minutes to answer e-mails while her child explored the Little Adventures water table!
Looking for more ways to balance work and parenting? Check out our Madison Mompreneur coworking sessions. If you are a business owner here in Madison or surrounding area, don’t forget to join us online for coworking while your little ones play at home. We can provide much deserved accountability to help you get through that never ending to-do list. We meet every Tuesday.
From the quiet calm of the Madison Public Library to the outdoor adventure of Monte Sano, and the energetic fun inside Altitude—there’s truly something for every working mom in Madison and Huntsville. Whether you’re hunting for free, local playgrounds to pair with work sessions, or paid spaces offering a bit extra, these spots offer flexibility, fun, and focus for you and your little one.
As a disclaimer, Madison Mompreneur does not claim that the businesses and locations listed above provide childcare or are appropriate locations to leave a child unattended– please make sure if you are planning to work while supervising a minor, you ensure you can still provide ample attention to a kid in your care.
Which of these Madison & Huntsville spots is your favorite? Share in the comments or tag @MadisonMompreneur when you try one!
September 3, 2025
Owner: Dr. Yanique Rolingson
About: S.N.A.P. Academy serves students in grades 2–4 through one-on-one and small-group instruction in reading, math, and writing. The program integrates academic support with social-emotional growth using the S.N.A.P. Method™ (Stop, Notice, Act, Plan). With faith-infused guidance, the academy equips students to build confidence, resilience, and long-term success inside and outside the classroom.
Phone Number: (256) 384-5271
September 2, 2025
Welcome to another edition of our Member Spotlight Series on the Madison Mompreneur blog! This series will help you get to know the members of Madison Mompreneur as we ask them questions about their personal and professional life as moms who own businesses in the Madison, Alabama area.
We are continuing this series with the spotlight on Courtenay Fults, Owner of The Sour Crumb!
Tell us about yourself!
I’m Courtenay Fults, and I own The Sour Crumb.
How does your business help people?
The Sour Crumb helps people by providing wholesome, homemade sourdough and baked goods made with simple, high-quality ingredients. We offer a delicious alternative to store-bought bread, giving families a healthier option without preservatives or additives. Our bakery also brings a sense of warmth and community—whether it’s a comforting loaf for a family dinner, a treat for a special occasion, or just a way to enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh-baked bread. Plus, we love sharing the joy of sourdough and cottage baking, inspiring others to appreciate real, handmade food.
How long have you lived in Madison?
5 years
What inspired you to start your business?
The Sour Crumb was inspired by a desire to provide healthier, homemade bread for our family. It all started with wanting to replace store-bought bread with something more nourishing for our children. As we baked more, friends and family started asking for loaves, and what began as a simple way to improve our family’s eating habits turned into a passion for sourdough baking. Baking became not just a way to feed our family but also a creative outlet and a source of joy. Seeing others enjoy our bread and knowing we’re offering a wholesome, locally made alternative inspired us to turn that passion into a business.
What sets your business apart from others in the industry?
What sets The Sour Crumb apart is our focus on high-quality, homemade sourdough baked with care. Unlike mass-produced bread, our sourdough is made with simple, wholesome ingredients—no preservatives, no shortcuts, just real food. Our story is also a big part of what makes us unique. We started baking to nourish our family, and that love and intention go into every loaf and treat we make. We’re not just selling bread; we’re sharing the comfort of homemade food, the joy of a well-fermented sourdough, and the connection that comes from supporting local, small-batch baking.
What do you consider to be your biggest success so far?
The greatest success is the connections we’ve built—seeing returning customers who love our bread, hearing stories of how our sourdough has become part of their family meals, and knowing that our baking makes a difference in people’s lives. The ability to share something homemade, created with care, and see it appreciated by others is the most rewarding part of this journey.
How does your business contribute to the local community?
We believe in the power of good food to bring people together, whether it’s a loaf shared at family dinner, a treat gifted to a friend, or simply the joy of enjoying something made with love. As a cottage bakery, we also support the local economy by sourcing ingredients from local suppliers whenever possible and encouraging people to shop small and buy locally made products. We love being part of a growing movement that values handcrafted, high-quality food over mass-produced alternatives. Beyond that, we share our passion for sourdough and homemade baking through storytelling and behind-the-scenes glimpses, inspiring others to appreciate and even try their hand at making real, homemade bread.
How do you see your business evolving in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I see The Sour Crumb growing in a way that stays true to its homemade roots while reaching more people who appreciate high-quality, wholesome baked goods.
Who are your typical customers and how do they find you?
Our typical customers are people who appreciate high-quality, homemade baked goods and want a better alternative to store-bought bread. They’re often families looking for wholesome options, food lovers who enjoy the taste and texture of real sourdough, and those who value supporting local, small-batch businesses. Many of our customers also have an interest in clean ingredients and love the idea of knowing exactly what goes into their bread. Most people find us through word of mouth, social media, and local community connections. Loyal customers share their love for our bread with friends and family, and our behind-the-scenes content, cozy branding, and engaging posts help new customers discover us online.
What do you enjoy most about running your business?
What I enjoy most about running The Sour Crumb is the joy of creating something with my hands that truly nourishes people. There’s something so rewarding about taking simple ingredients—flour, water, and salt—and turning them into a beautiful, flavorful loaf of sourdough. I also love the connection it brings. Seeing customers return because they love our bread, hearing stories of how our sourdough has become part of their family meals, and knowing that our baked goods bring comfort and happiness to others makes every early morning and long bake day worth it.
How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes?
I stay up to date on industry trends and changes by staying connected with the sourdough and cottage bakery community. I regularly read baking books, food blogs, and articles about fermentation, ingredient sourcing, and baking science to continue learning and improving my craft. I love exploring new techniques, flavors, and seasonal ingredients to keep my baking fresh and exciting. Since sourdough is both an ancient craft and a constantly evolving art, I’m always learning—and that’s one of the things I love most about baking!
What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a business in your industry?
If you’re thinking about starting a bakery, my advice would be to start small and focus on what truly makes your baking special. Stick to what you are good at and don’t try to do everything, customers are overwhelmed by large menus and you’ll get burnt out quickly.
What product/service would you like for us to highlight at this time?
Our online order platform for bakery drops and that we can take orders outside of a drop via messenger.
Do you involve your kids in your business? If yes, how so?
The boys are the official taste testers!
What do you find is the most difficult part of balancing motherhood and business life?
The most difficult part of balancing mommyhood and running a business is managing the constant juggling act between the needs of my family and the demands of the bakery. There are moments when I feel like I’m being pulled in different directions—whether it’s trying to get bread out the door while keeping up with school runs, playdates, and family time. But at the same time, I wouldn’t trade it for anything because both being a mom and running the bakery bring me so much fulfillment. It’s all about creating a rhythm that works for our unique situation, and while it’s definitely challenging at times, I’m grateful for both parts of my life.
What business in the Madison area is your favorite?
I love Magnolia Soaps, The Cat Bird Seat Nursery, and Bricks and Minifigs.
Where can people find you?
Instagram & Facebook!
If Courtenay’s experience as a mom and business owner resonates with you, we want to hear from you in the comments! And if you are a mom and business owner in Madison, Alabama email us at madisonmompreneur@gmail.com to be featured in a future Member Highlight post!
August 27, 2025
