Today we’d like to introduce you to Zara Lazaryan
Hi Zara, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Zara, and I am the baker and founder of Rustic Loaf. I was born and raised in a family where taking care of our health was a priority. When I had my own family, I started making healthy and creative foods and desserts. However, I never baked bread, even though it was a necessity for my family. In 2019, I started having health problems and realized that bread was the cause. The breads I bought from stores contained additives and would unnaturally last for months. Most store-bought sourdough breads were made primarily with yeast and had sourdough flavoring instead of being naturally fermented. I knew I needed to bake my own bread. In 2020, during COVID, I decided to start baking. My family and I deserved the best kind of bread—sourdough, just as it was made in ancient times. On April 15, 2020, my sourdough starter was born. During my extensive research, I was surprised to learn that people name their sourdough starters. I named mine Dove, in memory of my grandma. She was the wisest and most peaceful person I knew. Her warmth, wisdom, and memories inspired me to create the beautiful bread I bake today. The bread I make is not only for my family but for my community as well. Through my work, I aim to provide my community with an opportunity to live a healthier life. At our bakery, we use only organic ingredients and no additives, making our bread truly unique. The taste of our breads comes from minimal, clean ingredients—nothing artificial.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No road is ever smooth when building a business, and we are no exception. We have overcome struggles, persevered through challenges, and kept pushing forward. January had a significant negative impact on not just us but all of LA. Unlike many in our community, we did not lose our home, but we were affected financially. Despite our struggles, we continued pushing forward and donating to those in need. These challenges only made us stronger.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have 2 degrees—an MD in dentistry and a musician degree. However, my work today has nothing to do with my formal education. As an educated person, I know that to be good at something, one must continuously learn. So, I took masterclasses and specialized in the art of sourdough. Yet, I do not consider my knowledge complete, and I will continue learning and improving.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I would never have been able to achieve any of this without my supportive husband. He handles all the management, allowing me to focus on what I love. He believes in me even more than I believe in myself. My whole family provides endless support, helping in every way they can. Lastly, and most importantly, I am deeply grateful for my community. Their unwavering support in so many ways has allowed us to expand our variety and meet each customer’s needs.
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