Christmassy :: Q&A :: Mel from The Sourdough Club

Ok, so it isn’t super original of me, but last year during lockdown I decided to have another go at sourdough. I was gifted a starter my a friend and sort of muddled through a bit until the middle of this year when I decided to treat myself to a sourdough starter kit from The Sourdough Club in Sydney. My bread honestly improved from my very first loaf with the Sourdough Club starter, and as well as a great starter I had so much support from Mel, who is the star baker behind The Sourdough Club. I think a sourdough kit like the one I got, or any of the other goodies Mel has in store would make such a great gift! I realise we’re cutting it a bit fine on the gift buying now that it is so close to Christmas, but if you have a loved one thinking about taking up sourdough baking you can also grab a gift card in store.
Mel has kindly agreed to join me for a chat about Christmas today – check it out below!
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Hey Mel! Thanks so much for joining me to talk Christmas today! To start with, could you please tell us a little bit about your business and what inspired you to start it?
The Sourdough Club started in 2020 during lockdown when I lost my job. I found happiness in mastering the craft of making sourdough bread and decided to start a passion project which turned into something that I am very proud of. Its not only a business, but a network of people who love baking and sharing ideas with others.

Do you like to read Christmassy books or do you have a favourite Christmas story?
I don’t often read Christmassy books (that time of year is just so busy), but we do watch Home Alone religiously every Christmas Eve. It brings me back to my childhood and really brings the whole family together.

Is there a particular book you’d like to find under the Christmas tree this year?
I’d love any kind of cookbook or baking book, of course 🙂 I am a massive collector of cookbooks, probably too many!

Do you have a favourite book you’ve read that you are recommending (or gifting) to everyone?
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, a bit of an old one from a few years ago, but one that I couldn’t put down and powered through in one night. Gripping! I love a good thriller, especially when on holidays by the pool.

Can you share a favourite Christmas tradition or memory?
Baking and cooking in the kitchen with the whole family – that’s my favourite pastime in general, and setting the table! 🙂

Do you have have a favourite giftable product in store that would be great for Christmas (or anytime!)?
This year we released our Sourdough bread lame which took a bit of effort to design, make and get shipped. Everything has been so hard to source this year, but if you’re after a gift, please check out our online store.

Are you shopping with small businesses this year?
Yes, I am a big supporter of small and local businesses, I really believe in supporting these guys, especially during the last 2 years where people have had to do it tough. Lots of my gifts this year are edible or things to use in the house, things to show care and remind everyone how grateful we are to be together and safe.

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Huge thanks to Mel for taking the time to chat today! You can check out the Sourdough Club online here, and connect with Mel on Instagram here too (so much gorgeous sourdough inspo!).