WADENA, Minn. — Back in 2021, Julie and Ben Mulek were ready to leave behind the city and build something of their own in rural Minnesota.

Both had a background working at Costco and were ready to try their hand at running their own business, in a manner that made sense to them. When they found a property with some acreage near Verndale, Minnesota, they decided to build a market garden business offering farm-to-table goods to feed their new community.

Realizing that peak garden season doesn’t hit high gear until well into July, they knew they needed something else to sell when farmer’s market season kicks off in May. Julie’s teenage years were spent working at Hans’ Bakery in Anoka, Minnesota, a place she cherished for its focus on quality breads. She knew she enjoyed baking, and sourdou

See Full Page