Business owners join forces in their love of baking

Business owners join forces in their love of baking

26 May 2021

THEY became virtual supporters of each other’s business during lockdown — now two women bakers are working together to raise money for dementia research.

Ciara Van Vogt, the owner of Margaret’s Cottage B&B in Ardglass and Sharon Campbell from Mrs C’s Home Kitchen in Dundrum, have raised £1,350 so far for the Alzheimer’s Society from an online bake sale.

They supported each other’s business efforts through lockdown last year by connecting on social media but did not meet in person until March.

When they did, the two ladies struck up an immediate friendship and decided to put their skills together and collaborate on a project.

Sharon said: “During lockdown charities have really suffered and there are many worthy causes out there,  we both agreed it was hard to support just one.

“Both businesses support  their own individual local charities and will continue to do, but we chose to support an Alzheimer’s charity because we both know many people affected by this awful disease.”

Ciara is a carer for her elderly mother, Mrs Eithne Fitzsimons, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease four years ago. 

“I lose a bit of Mum every week, and sometimes Mum doesn’t know who I am,” said Ciara.

“Lockdown has stopped support groups and activities for people with dementia. It’s been very challenging for carers and their loved ones, and people often forget that carers’ lives are adversely affected too.”

“Imagine having a spouse or parent who no longer recognises you and who due to this awful disease you no longer recognise.”

One of the things that resonates with both women is the thought of any loved one losing all our precious memories.

Ciara continued: “Research into the causes of, and treatment for dementia is critically important but not a priority for UK governments. 

“We would love to see this dreadful disease eradicated for future generations. We both have strong ties to Northern Ireland, being from here, although we both spent time living and working in England and Scotland before moving home to settle back in Co Down. Our mutual love of baking and cooking was how we met and became friends.” 

The two bakers organised a virtual bake sale to raise money for dementia research. 

However they soon realised that due to geography not everyone could buy their fabulous baking,  so they set up a JustGiving page to run alongside the bake sale. 

“Planning the challenges of a bake sale during lockdown was fun, so too was choosing some of our most popular products to sell to raise money,” said Sharon.

“The menu proved so popular. Within ten days we both realised we wouldn’t get much sleep as baking for Alzheimer’s became a top priority.”

Early mornings and late nights meant that customers received their sweet treats and funds are still being raised by the pair. 

If you want to check out their Just Giving page, details are: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sharonandciarasbakesale and both ladies can be found on Facebook and Instagram.