Today we’d like to introduce you to Isabella Bonello.
Hi Isabella, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Opening my very own shop has been a dream of mine since I was a teenager. While I have worked in the industry for the past 10 years, I have focused solely on baking for the past 7.
Three Bites was created in 2019 as a creative outlet while I was working in a job, I wasn’t too happy in. I started out doing some markets here and there but didn’t really get a lot of time to hone in on what I wanted to do. When the pandemic hit in 2020, I was laid off, like so many others. As someone that has always worked more than one job, I found myself needing to find something to pour myself into. That thing became Three Bites.
I have spent the past two years really digging in and figuring out what this business was going to be. In this business, I found a way to explore my Italian and Filipino backgrounds, as well as learning about other cultures and food. I find freedom in not adhering to one type of pastry, or cake, or cookie. I make things that I enjoy, and I have just been incredibly fortunate that others seem to enjoy them too! This year, I get to open my storefront to everyone, and while the journey has been incredibly difficult, I like to think that 14-year-old me thinks I’m pretty cool.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No part of this has been a smooth journey. Every single step has come with its own hurdles and difficulties. Whether it’s trying to work with the city, or with a contractor that just doesn’t want to do their job, it has not been easy. Sometimes it felt like I would take two steps forward, and one or two steps back. Not just that, but trying to build a business from the confines of your home can come with its own challenges as well. There is only so much you can grow before you hit a plateau. However, while it has been taxing, I have learned far more than I ever would have if things had just gone to plan. All of the lessons I learned are invaluable to me, and while some days I would have done things completely differently, most of the time I am grateful for those same lessons I wouldn’t have learned had things not been so difficult.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We are a small, from scratch bakery. I pull mostly from my Italian and Filipino background, which makes my offerings a little more eclectic. I don’t adhere to any one specific style, pastry, or dessert, and I like to believe that my bakes reflect that freedom and exploration. We do our best to try and give back to the community by way of donations to specific organizations. I also wanted to make sure that I was featuring local artists and makers in the shop, and have a consignment where people can shop other artists. A big part of what I want to do is just be part of and support any community that I am in.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The fact that I am incredibly stubborn and outspoken.
Contact Info:
- Email: hello@threebitesbakery.com
- Website: www.threebitesbakery.com
- Instagram: @threebitesbakery
Image Credits
MJ Hernandez
