Larry’s Bread Machine by Going With The Grain

It all started with a chance encounter at the library. Back in 2012, Larry’s then-girlfriend attended an event, not for books, but for something tastier – a food tasting event featuring local cheese artisans, where a representative from Regina Farmers Market expressed a desire for a bread vendor. Larry received a life-changing phone call that would forever alter the course of his career. The idea of joining the Regina Farmers Market excited them so much that they expedited his application, as it was nearly the end of the season.

Larry had a vision for his business, wanting to name it “Larry’s Hot Buns.” However, the farmers market found the name too risqué, leading Larry to explore alternative options, like “With The Grain” and “Against The Grain.” It was a serendipitous moment while watching TV that provided the spark for the perfect name. A character from “Corner Gas” declared, “In Saskatchewan, you always go with the grain,” and that’s how “Going With The Grain” was born. Later, with the help of a marketing expert, the business expanded to “Larry’s Bread Machine by Going With The Grain.”

Today, Larry’s passion for baking extends beyond his home bakery and into his food truck, offering a delightful array of specialty breads, buns, and bagels. Personal favourites include the mouthwatering olive buns and irresistible cinnamon buns. The food truck also serves up scrumptious sandwiches and calzones, filling a void in the Regina Farmers Markets.

Larry’s plan for the future is to get to the point where he can retire from his office job. When asked, Larry said that those looking to get into any type of business should do it out of passion. It will help get you through the times that are very hard. The thrill of serving a bustling crowd of customers during the markets makes all the hard work worthwhile, even on those late nights before market days when he has to force himself to work.

However, Larry’s path to success was not without its challenges. When he first started, getting his trailer painted proved to be an issue, with a looming catering gig hanging in the balance. The event coordinator made it clear: no payment without a presentable setup. Thankfully, he was able to get his “scary as hell” trailer looking presentable just days before the catering.

One of the best aspects of Larry’s venture is the instant respect he earned within the community. Just two months into his bakery business, a budding restaurateur seeking advice approached him. Larry did his best to help, even though he was relatively inexperienced.

But not every part of Larry’s journey has been smooth sailing. The worst moments come when events get canceled due to factors beyond anyone’s control, a bitter pill to swallow in the food industry.

Larry takes pride in supporting local businesses, sourcing most of his ingredients from Saskatchewan. The only exceptions are sugar (from Alberta), lemons, and olives. Networking has played a crucial role in his success, often leading to unexpected connections.

Larry’s delicious creations can be found at various local establishments like The Fat Badger and Tuppenny Coffee & Books, and Hampton Hub. Other places he sends people to include Cuppa Tea, Shannon’s Pub, and 13th Ave Coffee. These places have become favourites of his, forming a web of local support that keeps his business thriving.

In the end, Larry’s journey from that chance encounter at the library to becoming a beloved baker and food truck owner is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and community support. So, the next time you’re at Regina Farmers Market, don’t forget to swing by “Larry’s Bread Machine by Going With The Grain” and savor the delicious offerings that have warmed the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Thank you to Larry Gall for taking the time to sit with me and answer my questions.