MEET THE BAKER

Lori Richard

I like to say that Vanilla Bean Bakery began by accident, but maybe it was years in the making. I had toyed with the notion of a bakery for a very long time, but was never sure if it was something I wanted to take on. Plus, I knew that if I were to have a bakery, it would need to be completely on my terms - with only the use of organic ingredients - or I would definitely not do it.

Considering I am self-taught, I often doubted my ability and questioned whether others would be interested in my passion. However, in June of 2024, the farm my daughter started working for thought it would be nice if I provided cookies for their stand. I guess I can say the rest is history.

As stressful as it has been at times, I have truly loved the opportunity to share this passion with you and have a platform to promote organic foods and local farms, as they are so important. My journey with natural, wholesome organic food began nearly three decades ago, shortly after the birth of my firstborn. My interest in baking, however, extends back to when I was a child.

One thing I’ve truly enjoyed throughout my life is the opportunity to provide friends and family with exceptional baked goods made from the highest quality ingredients—always free from artificial colors and flavors. As a Pennsylvania native, specifically from the Lancaster and Lebanon County areas, I grew up surrounded by agriculture. It was a way of life for many, and I spent countless hours at farmers’ markets and local farms in search of the freshest produce and dairy.

During my 20s and 30s, I moved often, living in several different states—and even Canada! With each move, one of the first things I’d do was seek out local farms offering organic produce, quality cheeses, and raw milk. Nearly a decade ago, I settled in New Hampshire and was thrilled to discover how deeply valued organic and regenerative farming is here and throughout New England.

I am honored to be part of this community that supports the farmers that have a sense of responsibility and stewardship to the land to use traditional, organic, and regenerative farming practices, and who work tirelessly to create sustainability for future generations. Thank you for your support to help make this dream a reality and I look forward to continuing to provide delicious baked goods.

When I am not in the bakery, you can often find me learning traditional heritage crafts, spending time with my family, exploring the outdoors through hiking and kayaking, or treasure hunting in antique shops. In addition to my love for baking, I am also passionate about real estate, and am licensed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Follow along on my real estate journey through

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SOME CUSTOMER COMMENTS…

WHAT IS VANILLA BEAN BAKERY?

Vanilla Bean Bakery is a New Hampshire Cottage Food Business. Cottage Food Business business products are exempt from New Hampshire Licensing and inspection.

  • See THIS LINK from the University of New Hampshire regarding Cottage Food Business

  • See THIS LINK from the University of New Hampshire regarding health and safety standards Cottage Food Business are Required to follow

  • See THIS LINK for a document from the New Hampshire Department of Health regarding what can and cannot be sold by a Homestead / Cottage Business. Vanilla Bean Bakery falls under the category of “those that are exempt from licensing.“