BTB: Alan Lazama
Baker, manager, and friend to all who walk through the doors of Rye Goods! He brings a positive and uplifting attitude to customers and staff, and is a huge part of what makes your experience great!
This week we introduce you to,
Today, Alan is our Shop manager at Laguna, but he has worn many hats over the last (almost) 10 years of being part of Rye Goods. From the early beginnings to what it is today, Alan has seen every area of growth the company has experienced and has consistently shown up to bring his sister (and our owner), Sara’s vision to life.
Here’s where Alan’s story begins…
Alan has been with Rye since the very beginning, recalling his first job for the bakery: driving the old food truck around town. It may seem like ages ago now, but he is thankful to have been there for all the stages the business has gone through. Working through all the ebbs and flows that come with growing a small business has not been easy work, but he continually dedicates himself to helping the company thrive.
Growing up, Alan was exposed to baking and bread-making from his mom and grandma. His mom would bake for his school and little league, and his grandma for church. For him, however, his bread-making journey began a little later in life.
After all the years helping grow and develop the business, his fondest memory is being taught pastry in the garage bakery in Tustin. Another memorable moment was opening day at Lido Marina Village, a day that was surreal for him and the rest of the team!
Working in his new position at Laguna, Alan hopes he brings a positive vibe to the group, and we are sure our customers and staff agree! In an often fast-paced and busy environment, Alan remains calm in what sometimes feels like a storm. He is dedicated to making every customer feel seen, appreciated, and served to the best of our ability!
Alan has developed a passion for good, high-quality bread and food throughout his time at Rye Goods. When asked if he noticed a difference between our dough and others he expressed his appreciation for our heritage grains.
In addition, he deeply resonates with the Rye Goods mission - using local fruits and vegetables and to live in each season. Growing relationships with local farmers, and getting the best, ripe produce around has been something he loves!
Like most things that change seasonally at the shops, Alan’s favorite pastry is our kringle. He loves that the flavor changes so frequently, and that every variation is just as amazing as the last!
Another favorite of his is the jalapeño cheddar loaf, which he loves using for breakfast sandwiches!
When asked what processes he enjoys at the shops he expressed how much he misses making and specifically shaping the breads. Now, he says he finds constructing take out boxes therapeutic and is one of his favorite tasks on shift “you can just drift away” .
Alan has been a huge part of the formation of Rye Goods, and continues to work hard to deliver amazing service and really good bread! Visit Laguna and you might just see Alan serving costumers or maybe constructing those boxes he talked about!
