Mary C Gluten-Free Treats by Mary Curkov

Website:marycglutenfreetreats.com

Facebook:facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577024332363

Instagram:instagram.com/marycglutenfreetreats

After taking early retirement, Mary Curkov found herself back in the kitchen—this time, baking up a business plan. With more than thirty years in corporate sales and merchandising, Curkov was ready to launch a new venture, one that offered flexibility, purpose, and a creative outlet. Entrepreneurship was the natural next step, allowing her to blend career experience with personal passion to build a rewarding company from scratch. That became the recipe for Mary C Gluten-Free Treats, a brand built on empathy, creativity, and the desire to make life sweeter for those with dietary restrictions. “My business is about preserving the joy of sweet treats while offering inclusive options for people of all ages with food intolerances,” she explains.

Curkov understands first-hand the challenges of living with food intolerances, a cruel twist for someone who loves to bake—and eat—dessert. “We joke in our family that it is genetic. We all enjoy sweet treats.” For the past 40 years, she has battled digestive issues and the dietary restrictions that accompany them. She is not alone. Although only 7% of the U.S. population is reported to be diagnosed with gluten intolerance or sensitivity, recent studies show that 20 to 30% of Americans purchase gluten-free foods to relieve issues from digestion to inflammation, or just because they believe it’s the best option for their health. Curkov’s customer base includes all these types of consumers, plus those who purchased treats for family and friends and become regular customers themselves. “Not all gluten-free products out in the market are tasty in my experience,” she says. Her growing fan base agrees, appreciating Curkov’s dedication to creating alternative versions of traditional recipes, from everyday snacks to holiday indulgences. 

“My most popular treat is my chocolate chip cookie,” Curkov says. “I’ve received great reviews on it.” Her mom, a talented cookie baker, would be proud as it was one of her favorite cookies. Curkov fondly remembers another of her mother’s favorites, “She made an amazing pecan crescent cookie at the holidays that we all enjoyed.” Fortunately for her customers, Curkov makes a gluten-free version of that as well.

Early this year, Curkov began her journey as an entrepreneur. She knew what she wanted to achieve but knew she would need guidance. Inspiration struck while flipping through a Harper College Continuing Education catalog. “I saw an advertisement for the SBDC at Harper College and ripped the page out—I still have it,” she says. While she waited for approval from the health department, she contacted the SBDC office.

Curkov is forever grateful she scheduled that initial appointment, which led to a fruitful relationship with the SBDC at Harper College. “Each advisor is a rock star, and they all offer expertise in different areas. Once I learned who did what, I scheduled appointments with them all.”

Sarah Cervantes, Illinois SBDC Manager, was Curkov’s first point of contact and a valued advisor. Her warmth and encouragement helped Curkov stay energized through the process, as they worked through brainstorming business names, tackling administrative challenges, and working through unexpected obstacles. 

Kevin McVearry, Restaurant and Hospitality Advisor, helped Curkov clarify her business model. Unsure of pursuing a cottage food operation or a commercial kitchen business, she was inspired by McVearry’s insight to focus on the farmers market circuit as the best option to launch her brand. He encouraged her to sign up for her first market in Roselle, which was a resounding success. That confidence boost led to a summer filled with market appearances, culminating in a pop-up event on Chicago’s iconic Michigan Avenue. “If someone had told me in May that I would be doing that, I would have said no way,” Curkov says.

Dennis LaPorta, Sales Strategy Advisor, guided Curkov through the process of forming her LLC. His clear explanations and practical advice gave her the confidence to manage the paperwork herself. He also shared invaluable tips on prospecting for commercial clients, helping Mary C Gluten-Free Treats prepare for future growth in wholesale and event partnerships.

Jennie Johns, Website and Technology Advisor, played a pivotal role in Curkov’s digital presence. From choosing WIX as a platform to offering design tips and logo feedback, Johns empowered the entrepreneur to build and maintain her own website. “She helped me believe I could do it,” Curkov says. “Now I update it regularly myself.” She is also grateful for Johns’ advice on maintaining work-life balance.

Cheri Kretsinger, Marketing and Branding Advisor, helped Curkov dip her toes into social media marketing. Though initially hesitant, Curkov created business pages and plans to meet with Kretsinger again to expand her online presence. 

Curkov wholeheartedly recommends the Illinois SBDC at Harper College, stating, “The education, coaching, insights, and knowledge that this team passionately provides is vital. If you ever felt alone in your startup, this team will help overcome that.”

Now that the summer markets have wrapped up, Curkov is developing the next phases of her business and continuing to build her brand. A selection of Mary C Gluten-Free Treats is now available online, and her popular baked goods will make appearances at indoor markets throughout the winter. Curkov plans to forge partnerships with event planners as well as explore the commercial side of the business and selling to coffee shops. 

Having successfully navigated the path to entrepreneurship, Curkov has sage advice for others wanting to start their own businesses. “Most entrepreneurs are driven individuals with strong work ethics. We work hard and constantly push ourselves to do ‘one more thing.’  My advice is to celebrate the accomplishments. Remember to take care of yourself. Take a break. Go for a long walk or plan a vacation and travel if possible. Give yourself rest days just like you did when you were employed with a company; these breaks are necessary to recharge.”

Curkov credits her family and friends for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Their encouragement, along with the SBDC’s expert guidance, has helped her build a business layered with love, resilience, and delicious treats.