Nestled in a Dallas subdivision is a beloved gem of the Paulding County community, an in-home bakery by the name of A Batch of Grace and Faith. Since its beginnings in 2023, the bakery has become a place of fellowship and healing.
This week, Jones & Swanson had the opportunity to chat with owner Danesa Steele and learn about the heart behind her work, which goes far beyond an affinity for baking.
Q1: TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.
Danesa is a lifetime Georgia resident who grew up in Cobb County. She is married to her highschool sweetheart, Robbie, with whom she shares two daughters and two fur babies.
As a third generation small business owner, she has seen the ins and outs of what running a small business entails. She knows firsthand the value that local businesses bring to the residents of the area.
When she’s not baking, you can find Danesa hanging out outside with her two dogs Zoe and Pixie, or currently planning the wedding of her oldest daughter, Emma!
Q2: WHAT IS A BATCH OF GRACE AND FAITH’S STORY?
A Batch of Grace and Faith is a sourdough-based cottage style “microbakery.” Don’t let the modest size of the operation fool you, though, as the bakery is a licensed LLC and Danesa has a business license and a certification in food safety.
The name itself is an ode to her family. She was inspired by the nickname of her parents’ Ringgold farm, “A Patch of Grace and Faith”—a nod to the middle names of Danesa’s two daughters.
The business is a result of what initially began as a personal healing journey. After various health struggles, particularly a tough battle with COVID-19 back in 2020, she decided to embark on a journey of natural healing. It was then that she discovered the importance of gut health, which brought her to sourdough.
Danesa creates her baked good using her sourdough starter, which she has dubbed as “Doughlene.” Doughlene comes from a starter that is over 100 years old. While her baking journey started with sourdough bread loaves, the bakery now also offers muffins, scones, cookies, and more.
Health and wellness is truly the driving force behind A Batch of Grace and Faith. The products are made with all organic ingredients, some of which are sourced from other local businesses.
Q3: HOW HAVE YOU ENJOYED BEING APART OF THE COMMUNITY?
“Each customer becomes a friend, and I couldn’t ask for anything better.”
Danesa expressed her love and admiration for the community she interacts with. She is continually motivated to bring quality products to her customers by the stories of healing and faith that they share with her.
As a way to further share her passion with the community, she periodically hosts classes where customers can learn the art of baking sourdough bread.
Q4: WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF A BATCH OF GRACE AND FAITH LOOK LIKE?
Danesa is hopeful that the future will bring more opportunity for people to learn about the importance of quality bread and ingredients. She cherishes her personal porch pickups, and aims to always keep their intimate nature. Moreover, she is excited to see the family-like network that A Batch of Grace and Faith has fostered continue to grow.
To purchase products or stay up-to-date with the bakery’s weekly menu, visit the online storefront or Facebook page. Jones & Swanson is grateful to have met another member of our wonderful community!
Categories: Community Outreach
