Civil Engineer turned sourdough baker? That’s me.

I’m Holly and I’m the head baker for Holly Made Bakes. I’m also a licensed civil engineer in Texas. I worked for 12 years with the same engineering firm straight out of college at Texas A&M University. I worked hard for my degree and pulled long hours doing what I loved. Then in 2023 I decided to make a big scary change - I stepped away from the comfort of my desk and went into full-time mom mode. I have 2 enthusiastic boys that I wanted to be with at home. So I decided to put my engineering career on hold and give them my full attention.

I love being a mom and a wife. That was a fun year, however the transition out of corporate work was a challenge for me. During that time, I found myself craving something to do that was just for me. I wanted something that gave me flexibility and freedom to go to their soccer practices, but also something that challenged my creative, problem-solving side.

Enter sourdough.

I started baking with sourdough and just fell in love with it. Baking sourdough proved to be very precise and complicated, yet also simple and pure. It was very similar to the engineering mindset I was used to. I loved it. I found myself looking through sourdough recipes online, printing piles of them and then baking way too much the next day. I loved baking and sharing it with others. My close family and friends were so dear to try out my goods and give honest feedback.

So then it grew! My close friends suggested I turn this into a business, so here we are! I asked a bazillion questions and sought out advice from fellow moms and small business owners. I’m thankful I get to bake what I want, when I want, while spending time with my beautiful boys and amazing, supportive husband (who is the most excellent pizza dough maker btw).

When I’m not parenting or baking, I enjoy painting, cycling and participating in triathlons! I’ve done a handful of half marathons, 5Ks and sprint triathlons over the last few years and wow, they’re so fun! It helps that my husband is a marathoner, so it’s fair to say we don’t stop moving.

I love what I do and I love sharing it with you. So thank you for being here and supporting this crazy, wonderful dream of mine.