In the heart of Naracoorte, excitement is rising almost palpably, much like the dough in the soon-to-open Craig’s Bakehouse. With an October opening in sight, Craig, the charismatic yet introverted force behind this ambitious venture, shares insights into his journey of transforming the historical Morris Bakery into a modern culinary destination.
Today, we sit down for a light-hearted chat about Craig's dreams, designs, and the delicate balance of respecting tradition while embracing innovation in the design of the Naracoorte Bakery.
Interviewer: Craig, transforming the beloved Morris Bakery into Craig's Bakehouse is a bold move. What inspired you to take on this challenge?
Craig: It’s all about timing and community. With an aim to open in October and be well-established by Christmas, it’s ambitious but exciting. The Morris Bakery has been a community staple for 80 years, and I felt a strong call to honor that heritage while infusing it with a fresh, modern spirit. Think of it as baking a classic recipe with a new twist—familiar yet surprising.
Interviewer: Speaking of new twists, how has collaborating with the interior designer of an iconic bakery brand from Melbourne influenced the bakery’s new design?
Craig: Working with Luke is like mixing the perfect dough. Our combined vision is bold and modern, yet we have landed on a profound respect for tradition. Integrating sleek designs with the bakery’s rustic elements has been a fascinating process. It's a bit like blending the old with the new, where traditional wainscoting meets chic marble—a recipe for both nostalgia and novelty.
Interviewer: With such innovative designs and a diverse menu, how do you plan to meet and exceed local expectations?
Craig: The key ingredient is engagement. We will be spending time listening to the locals, understanding their tastes and memories associated with the bakery. Craig’s is not just my project; it’s a community hub. From local pies to French pastries, our menu is designed to reflect a blend of Naracoorte’s heritage and a touch of European flair, ensuring there’s something to delight everyone.
Interviewer: How does your background in marketing and transforming large-scale businesses help in shaping this venture?
Craig: Every loaf, like every brand, has its own story. My experience helps me to craft compelling stories that resonate with our customers, not just about the food, but the entire Craig’s experience. It’s about creating a destination where people don’t just come to eat, but to connect, share, and create new memories.
Interviewer: Yes but what about your personal journey? Running a bakery is a far cry from corporate boardrooms.
Craig: It’s been a rollercoaster, to say the least. I’ve traded suits for aprons, meetings for greeting guests and making coffee's, and never looked back. Although I'm not the one baking—leave that to our skilled bakers, because if I tried, we’d have a day-one disaster! I'm front of house, ensuring everything runs smoothly and everyone feels welcome. Sure, there are days when the chaos of a bustling bakery feels overwhelming, but then I see the smiles, the community gathering, sharing stories over a cuppa and a slice of cake, and it all makes sense.
Interviewer: There must be some pressure with the upcoming opening in October. How are you managing the expectations and the timeline?
Craig: There's always a bit of pressure, especially when you set high standards. We’re tracking well for an October opening—ensuring everything from the decor to the ovens are just right. It's tight, but we’re committed. After all, good things come to those who bake!
Interviewer: Beyond the opening, what future plans do you envision for Craig’s Bakehouse?
Craig: Looking ahead, I see Craig’s as more than a bakery. I imagine it as a community cornerstone where we can host events, offer baking classes, and perhaps evenings of live music and local art. I want Craig’s to be a place that nourishes both the stomach and the soul.
Interviewer: Thanks for sharing your journey with us, Craig. Any final thoughts as you prepare for the soft opening?
Craig: Thank you for the chat! My final thought? Well, in both baking and in life, patience and passion are essential. We’re eagerly preparing to welcome everyone to Craig’s Bakehouse and Café, and I hope it becomes a place where old friends gather and new friendships are baked daily.
With a warm smile and a keen eye on the day's operations, Craig continues to oversee the final touches in the bakery, each step reflecting his commitment to blending tradition with innovation for the community.
Comments