One Loaf at a Time: The Start of Old Simcoe Sourdough

How it All Got Started

By Shannon — Teacher, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist & Bread Enthusiast

Last summer, while spending time in Prince Albert where my parents live, I found myself with a little more free time than usual. As a teacher and therapeutic recreation specialist, I’m used to busy, purposeful days—but during those quieter summer weeks, I started looking for something creative to dive into. That’s when I discovered sourdough.

What began as a way to stay busy quickly turned into a real passion. I fell in love with the whole process—from caring for the starter to shaping dough and watching beautiful loaves come out of the oven. But most of all, I loved the feeling of gifting something fresh and handmade to friends and family. There’s something meaningful about giving someone a simple, usable item made with care and intention.

I’ve wanted to share that feeling more widely for a while now. Spending summers in Prince Albert and visiting Port Perry often, I’ve always felt connected to the warmth and friendliness of this community. It felt like the perfect place to start something small, local, and heartfelt.

So I built a little stand—made from barn wood and leftover lumber—and launched Old Simcoe Sourdough. Right now, I’m offering naturally leavened sourdough loaves (with a few fun inclusions) and my favourite sourdough cinnamon rolls.

The stand is just the beginning. I hope to offer porch pickup and local delivery down the road if there’s a demand. I’m also looking forward to expanding into other sourdough-based items when the time is right.

Giving back is important to me—so if there’s ever a school fundraiser, community event, or local cause where I can support others while getting the word out, I’d love to be involved.

Thanks for following along as I grow this little project into something special. I’m excited to share it with you—one loaf at a time.

Warmly,
Shannon
Old Simcoe Sourdough