In this episode of Gluten-Free Unwrapped, host Jenny Finke sits down with Celeste Bremer, co-founder of May’s Gluten-Free Market — a 100% dedicated gluten-free grocery store and community hub in Rhode Island.
Celeste shares how celiac disease shaped her family’s journey and sparked the idea to create a safe, welcoming space where gluten-free shoppers could finally browse without fear or frustration. She opens up about the realities of launching and scaling a niche grocery business, from supply chain challenges to building trust within the gluten-free community.
Together, Jenny and Celeste dive into what makes May’s Market so special, the emotional connections customers form with truly safe spaces, and why community-driven businesses matter more than ever. Celeste also offers insight into the future of gluten-free retail and what it really takes to survive — and thrive — in today’s competitive grocery landscape.
Connect with Celeste and May's Gluten Free Market
Website: maysglutenfreemarket.com
Instagram: @maysglutenfreemarket
Facebook: @maysglutenfreemarket
Connect with Jenny Finke (host)
Follow Love Me Gluten Free on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) and Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).
Follow Jenny's founder content on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree and subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.
Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfinke/
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Celeste Bremer and May's Market
02:38 Personal Journey: Diagnoses and Challenges
05:55 The Birth of May's Gluten-Free Market
08:39 Navigating Celiac Disease and Type 1 Diabetes
12:00 Creating a Safe Haven for Gluten-Free Shoppers
14:45 Expanding Offerings: From Grocery to Prepared Foods
17:42 Collaboration and Community in Gluten-Free Business
20:44 Future Vision: Growth and New Opportunities
23:42 Sourcing Unique Gluten-Free Products
26:30 The Changing Landscape of Gluten-Free Options
30:55 The Value of Curation in Gluten-Free Products
35:50 Building Community and Supporting Small Businesses
40:56 Challenges of Running a Niche Market
47:29 Family Involvement in Business
51:50 Personal Growth and Business Lessons
55:54 Connecting with the Community