Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Emory.
Hi Elizabeth, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Emory, and my Heart and Soul’s journey began in 2018, right after I received my bachelor’s in graphic design. I was chronically ill throughout college, with what my doctors diagnosed me at the time as anxiety, depression, and IBS. I spent many months in agonizing pain, depressive episodes, doctor visits, and tests, rotated through many jobs, and many periods of unemployment due to my illness. After testing both food allergies and sensitivities, I realized I was allergic to milk, wheat, and peanuts, and I was sensitive to eggs, cinnamon, red meats, and squashes. I quickly adapted my diet to gluten and dairy-free (while in graduate school). This was a challenge because gluten-free was becoming a “trend,” and most stores did not offer what they now offer; if you are dairy-free, you know how hard it is to find dairy-free products! I have always had a sweet tooth, and I decided if I couldn’t find what I wanted locally, I would create it. I began to experiment with gluten-free baking. Many people would say, “You can’t make gluten-free taste good, let alone gluten-free and dairy-free.” I took this as a challenge! I started bringing all my baked goods to various jobs I worked for others to taste and receive feedback.
In September of 2022, I caught Covid-19. Over the next four months, my health would decline significantly. I had symptoms of rapid heartbeat, pre-syncope, low blood pressure, GI issues, migraines, and other issues. In January of 2023, I was diagnosed with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and Dysautonomia. I had to leave my stable, well-paying, state job as a graphic designer. I soon became depressed, thinking I would never be able to be active, hold a job, or be on my feet ever again. In June 2023, I received a third diagnosis of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. During those trying years, I honed in on recipes I want to share with you. Baked goods that were created from a need but stayed for the taste.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
My road to Heart and Soul has been bumpy due to chronic illness, financial struggles, and time restraints. Chronic illness was and will always be an obstacle, but it has given me a purpose for baking.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in gluten-free and dairy-free baked goods. Some of my products are vegan as well. Few far and in-between stores or products are both gluten- and dairy-free. I am famous for these baked goods that are moist and delicious.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
My chronic illness has been my motivating factor. Changing my diet has allowed me to cultivate and share these recipes with others. Whether you have dietary restrictions, are venturing your diet, or want an excellent treat, heart and soul have it.
Pricing:
- Cookies $12-$25
- Muffins $20-$35
- Cupcakes $15-$25
- 2 Tier cake $40
- Donuts $20-$35
Contact Info:
- Website: heartandsoulgfbakery.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/heartandsoulgfbakery?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Credit to Other Lands Brew off of Rutherford Road in Greenville.
