Grit Rambusch shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Grit, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
My work day starts latest at 3AM. Baking for the day, prepping and once we are open for business preparing sandwich and other food orders for our guests. Normally I leave the business by 2PM. After a quick snack break I catch up on emails and do all office work necessary. On top of that I often research recipes, order needed supplies and check social media for relevant content and updates. An early dinner ends my ‘normal day’.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is Grit. I’m a German-trained pastry chef and the passionate owner of Crumbles & Cream Kaffeehaus. A business I built up from the ground through hard work and dedication. I put my heart & soul into my products, and I believe you can taste it.
We specialize in European pastries (sweet & savory) and offer a variety of European spreads, salads and sandwiches. Everything is made fresh in-house and items change seasonal. Our menu is always evolving with the same high level of quality for which we are known for.
We just started offering 3rd party delivery service for those who don’t have time to enjoy breakfast or lunch at the ‘haus’ and we are also working on a catering menu.
When I’m not baking and creating for our customers I like researching recipes and cooking for friends & family.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents. They both always worked full time and in addition to that my dad often worked extra hours in the evening. Their strong work ethic got installed in me. My dad also believed in learning a trade in all detail and at a bit slower pace instead of rushing through education and ending up with mediocre skills.
Both always encouraged me to follow my heart & gut when making professional decisions. You can’t be productive when you don’t like your line of work or if you are not happy with the company you’re working for.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes. A few years back my business was at a point where I wanted to move from a farmers market tent into a brick and mortar. My personal funds were limited and I couldn’t find any bank to give me even a small business loan. I was working a full time corporate job, did the baking and spent my weekends selling my products. I was working so hard and still couldn’t move forward. That’s when I considered scraping my storefront idea.
I still remember the moment when I ‘rebooted’ my willpower. It was an early morning drive to the farmers market. It was dark and it started to rain (wich is never a good thing for an outdoor market). I was thinking about all the obstacles I was facing and if it all would be worth it. That’s when I passed a semi truck and on the back door was written NEVER NEVER NEVER GIVE UP!
And I didn’t.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. I do care for my customers like they are family. Some people you like to be around more than others (just like with real family). In public and real life I don’t sugar coat things. When I believe something isn’t right I point it out. Most customers actually appreciate my honesty. When they ask for something I don’t think will work well or not in their best interest I will say so. Even if it means that I make a smaller sale or no sale at all.
Some call me though as nails. My mom sometimes says I missed attending charm school. But I do have a great sense of humor (‘on and off’ camera) and I don’t take myself too serious.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
First of all our yummy food. Then the relaxed atmosphere and friendly personalized service at the ‘haus’. That’s what we lovingly call the Kaffeehaus. We are a place to meet with friends & family and a place to make new friends. Lastly our delicious coffee. Served strong and hot – the European way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://crumblesandcream.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crumblesandcream/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grit-rambusch-b2a468a0/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crumblesandcream/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/crumbles-and-cream-plant-city-3?osq=Crumbles+and+cream
