River City 6: Michelle Knisely
Recognized as one of the best bakeries in the nation, Alotta Brownies Bakery is locally owned and operated by baker Michelle Kaiser, who has been in business for over 25 years and has also launched her own line of signature gourmet mixes featured on Shark Tank. Offering flavorful and fancy desserts of all kinds; if you can dream it, Alotta Brownies can make it a reality! Michelle Knisely mainly assists with customer service at Alotta Brownies Bakery, but also helps with baking when needed.
Tell us a little about your business. – Alotta Brownies is a full line gourmet bakery located in the Historic Downtown district of Fremont, NE. There are always amazing smells, delicious treats and a friendly smile to greet you. Michelle Kaiser, the owner, has done an excellent job growing her business and reaching many people in Fremont, Omaha, and the smaller communities in the area.
How did you get started in the business? – I was a stay-at-home mom, looking to get out of the house part-time. I inquired about the position and it just seemed like a perfect fit. I have been baking since I can remember and have a lot of experience in customer service.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The biggest challenge I’ve faced is finding a job I like (or even better, love) that utilizes my college degree. Though Alotta Brownies does not entirely fit all of these criteria, it nails the first. I am extremely happy in my role as part-time helper and full-time mom.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have been married to my wonderful husband for three years and we have an 18 month old little boy.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Everyone says when you have a child your life will change and it couldn’t be more true; you have no idea how much love you have within you until you hold that baby in your arms. It has forever changed my life and made me want to be the best possible person for my family in everything I do.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Spend time with my son and husband.
What are you the most proud of? – My son and family, which is no surprise as you can see!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Be yourself and always keep it simple.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – I would love to have the ability to fly.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I have a passion for animals so I have volunteered at the Cat House in Lincoln.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The last good books I read were the Silo series, which are science fiction novellas by Hugh Howey.
What is your favorite movie? – I really don’t have one favorite movie, but there are a few I can watch over and over without getting bored. A good example would be the original Star Wars Trilogy!
What is your favorite TV show? – The Big Bang Theory.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Savannakhet Asian Grill in Fremont.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached at the bakery, (402) 721-9400, or you can find out more about Alotta Brownies Bakery and get in touch with us by visiting our website at alottabrownies.com.