GENERAL

What is a Cottage Food Operation? 

The Cottage Food law was enacted in 2013 and allows certain foods to be prepared in a home kitchen to be sold to the public. Candelina is an approved Cottage Food Operation and receives yearly inspections from the County of Marin Environmental Health Services.  Additionally, I hold a business license, business insurance, and a food handler’s certificate. 

What health and safety procedures are being followed at the bakery?

I have a dedicated space in my home where I keep ingredients, cooking instruments and a refrigerator, all separate from those I use for my family.  This allows me to use all I need to bake for my costumers in an organized area, which I sanitize daily.

Where are you located?

I am located in the Terra Linda neighborhood in San Rafael. 

Do you have a store front?

I do not own a store front.  Your baked goods will be ready for porch pick-up at the time and date you selected. 

Do you deliver?

I currently do not deliver.

How far in advance should I order?

The online shop allows to pre-order up until 48 hours before the selected pick-up date/time (usually a Friday). 

What is the best way to contact you?

Phone calls, texts and emails all work for me. If you are interested in a large order, you can also contact me through the contact page. Special orders require a minimum of two weeks notice and are subject to availability. 

PRODUCTS

Do you offer gluten free products?

I do.  One important characteristic of Italian’s cuisine is the variety of the ingredients and the limited use of refined flours.  Please keep in mind that other products containing gluten are prepared in the kitchen.

Do you offer vegan products?

I do not.  I am not yet familiar with vegan baking.  

Do you take custom cakes’ orders?

I do not bake custom cakes.

Do you make classic Italian treats, like cannoli or Neapolitan cakes?

Unfortunately, I do not.  Many beloved Italian pastries are made with ingredients that I am not permitted to use in my cottage food operation, such as ricotta or pastry cream. As the business grows and expands into a commercial kitchen, they will be the first on my list!

ORDERS

How do I get the cakes I ordered?

You will be able to select a pick-up date and time from the order page.  Once the order is received, you will receive a confirmation email with my address.  

I forgot to pick up my products yesterday. Can I still pick it up today?

If you are not able to pick-p your order at the time selected, please send me a quick message, so I can help you re-schedule a time. If I don’t hear from you, your order will be donated to the local neighborhood pantry or to ExtraFood in San Rafael.

Do you offer shipping?

I do not offer shipping.

Can I place a larger order?

I love to bake for a party! Please use the Special Orders form to reach out or give me a call.  Some special orders may not always be fulfilled due to the limitations of a home-kitchen and my Cottage Food License.

What forms of payment do you accept?

The online shop allows to pay with credit card, but cash or Venmo are accepted (@Arianna-DAloia).

Can I change, cancel, or request a refund after an order has been placed?

An order can be changed or cancelled up to 24 hours before pick-up.  Please give me a call so I can make sure than nothing goes to waste. If you have a problem with your purchase, I’d like to make it right. All refunds will be handled on an individual basis.