Mary Kruta is a wife, mother, Lutheran Lady, and part of the creative team behind Kruta Bakery in Collinsville, Illinois.

In this drool-worthy “Conversations with Creatives” episode, Mary shares stories and wisdom from her decades of experience helping to run a family-owned, from-scratch, small-town bakery. What’s it like to be part of a century-old family business? When do bakers really get up in the morning? Why do professional bakers refer to “formulas” instead of “recipes”? And how on earth does Mary maintain her trim figure despite being surrounded by mouthwatering baked goods all day?

At the end of the episode, Mary challenges the Ladies to try their hand at what she considers the ultimate Easter dessert: carrot cake.

To learn more about Kruta Bakery and the Kruta family, check out their website and Facebook page.

You can also listen to previous “Conversations with Creatives” podcast episodes featuring liturgical seamstress Anna Hart, singer/songwriter Erin Bode, microfarmer Beth Ritzman, writer/editor Lisa Clark, author/soprano Katie Schuermann, visual artist Kelly Uffenbeck, and designer/entrepreneur Jessie Bell.

Connect with the Lutheran Ladies on social media in The Lutheran Ladies’ Lounge Facebook discussion group (facebook.com/groups/LutheranLadiesLounge) and on Instagram @lutheranladieslounge. Follow Sarah (@hymnnerd), Rachel (@rachbomberger), Erin (@erinaltered), and Bri (@grrrzevske) on Instagram!

Sign up for the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge monthly e-newsletter here, and email the Ladies at [email protected].