Get to Know Us
Our Background
Breadmaking is a timeless craft that we are fortunate to be a small part of. For hundreds of years, humanity has been baking bread, with countless hands—farmers, millers, and bakers—working to sustain a tradition that has nourished humankind throughout history. It's a humbling reminder that both the craft and the grains are greater than us.
Our story is mainly a rag-to-slightly-better-rags journey. It’s about taking risks, loving each other despite our flaws, and holding onto naive optimism.
Erik Zilen is a Midwesterner; Lauren Zilen is from Portland, Tennessee, near the Kentucky border. Both are huggers—big-hearted and friendly, their generosity matched by a rebellious streak. Growing up next door to the family plant nursery, Lauren has always known the meaningful impact of hospitality and community. During college, Erik backpacked overseas, where he discovered that European bakeries were the cornerstone of community. He vividly remembers different parts of Europe and was fascinated by how each region had its own unique bread, distinguished by ingredients, techniques, fermentation, and flavor. That’s when the first question arose: “This bread in Europe—Can we do that here in East Tennessee?” Skilled with his hands, he turned to baking—attending the Baking Institute of San Francisco, apprenticing with bakers, taking more classes, and going to grain conferences. All of this fueled a lasting interest in ancient whole grains. In 2015, Erik and Lauren cashed in their savings to buy Niedlov’s.
Our vision is to serve our community. We aim to consider our impact on the community in everything we do. As a small business, we do not have a board or shareholders; instead, we answer to our community. Our customers, employees, and neighbors are our “board,” and they expect us to be authentic, transparent, and responsive to their needs. This is a task we humbly pursue.
The team consists of individuals from diverse backgrounds, from those seeking work after incarceration to experienced bakers. At Niedlov’s, we aim to love one another so we can create beautiful bread for our community.
