decent packaging NZ

Crafty Baker is a cozy sourdough bakery and café located in the heart of Titirangi. What began as a passion for traditional scratch baking has blossomed into a beloved local gathering spot. 

We were lucky enough to chat to owner and operator, Dinesh about all things Crafty Baker, the importance of custom branding, and establishing yourself within the hospitality industry.

First up, can you please tell us a bit about Crafty Baker and what inspired you to start?

Crafty Baker is a sourdough bakery and café based in Titirangi, West Auckland. It all started with a passion for traditional scratch baking and a desire to create a space that feels like a home away from home that serves our community as best as it can. My journey began in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where I grew up surrounded by my Grandfather's confectionary business, and my Aunt's traditional wood fired Sri Lankan scratch bakery. Moving to New Zealand and eventually taking over a sourdough bakery with no prior experience was a leap of faith, however, the joy of serving people inspired me to create what Crafty Baker is today—a place where the community can gather to share locally made food and art made with passion and heart.

For someone visiting Crafty Baker for the first time, what would you recommend they try? (Hard choice we know, everything looks delicious!)

If I had to pick I’d recommend trying either our chilli chicken cheese pie or our steak and cheese pie, along with one of our cold pressed juices. Get an organic white or five seed sourdough loaf to take home, and don't forget to check out our ever changing walls that are displaying incredible local art for sale!

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You have created some pretty epic custom-branded products with us, including greaseproof paper, bags, and hot cups. Can you tell our readers a bit more about how you found the process of custom branding with decent?

The process with decent has been fantastic, the team made everything easy. From the design through to delivery, and now ongoing ordering and support. For many years, we overlooked the importance of custom branding but have recently realised its value and impact. For anyone considering custom branding, I’d say: invest in it. It’s worth the effort to create packaging that not only tells your story but also continues to do so outside of your cafe or restaurant space. This could be something as simple as a uniquely distinct brand colour that only you use. 

We love that you use our packaging, what’s your favourite thing about working with decent?

I think I would have to say it's decent's customer facing team. They offer solutions and it feels like they truly understand the pressures that the hospitality industry faces.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone looking to open a business within the hospitality industry?

Work with the team to build the best possible customer experience. Treat your customers like guests in your own home, and train your team to do the same. Hospitality is about serving your customers, this extends beyond your menu offering, those moments of care and attention will set you apart.

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For our readers who want to come and support you, where can they find you?

We are currently based in the Rise Building in Titirangi, West Auckland. Titirangi has evolved into a foodie's dream with many varied and interesting food and art offerings. Definitely worth the trek if you're not local. There is something for everyone! You can also check us out on instagram here. 

Anything else you would like to share?

We are working on opening a new site in Glen Eden. Hopefully we will be open by March 2025, so watch this space!