I still remember receiving the email in July 2008 that contained my diagnosis of gluten intolerance. I immediately thought about pasta, bagels, pizza and cupcakes—all of the foods I would have to give up as a result. This was before I discovered gluten-free pizza or had my first reuben sandwich on gluten-free bread. Since my diagnosis, I have discovered GF substitutes for just about all of the foods I loved before. Things were looking up.

The line of products I had the most difficulty replacing was baked goods. I was able to find products at bakeries offering wheat-free alternatives, but they never tasted the same as the cookies and cupcakes I was used to. So I started Tu-lu’s Bakery to create gluten-free baked goods that taste just as delicious as products containing wheat. After experimenting with different blends of flours in my kitchen at home, I finally came up with recipes for cookies, brownies and cupcakes that everyone can enjoy. And coming from Memphis, TN, we southerners take our desserts very seriously!

I decided to pursue my passion for cooking after graduating from SMU when I attended culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu in Austin, TX. From there, I took an internship at Gramercy Tavern, and I have been living in New York City ever since.  I worked for two gourmet catering companies before beginning my master’s in the Foods Studies program at NYU.

I hope you love my products as much as I love making them!   - Tully

In January of 2011, I met Tully through an introduction by a Professor at ICE (Institute of Culinary Education).  Prior to that, I had been diagnosed with Celiac Disease in September of 2009.  Eliminating gluten from my diet had a tremendously positive effect on my health and overall well being, and I became a huge advocate in following a Gluten Free lifestyle.  The combination of my newly found diet and my passion for the culinary world, resulted in my leaving the financial industry in June of 2011, in order to establish a Partnership with Tully.

Tu-Lu's continues to experience incredible growth and success as the only 100 % dedicated GF Bakery in Manhattan.  My belief in GF products continues to be greatly reinforced not only as a result of my own positive experience, but also in witnessing people's own experiences at the Bakery. Upon entering Tu-Lu's, a person's eyes actually light up (especially children), when they realize they can enjoy a variety of treats.  Their world has now become limitless, instead of being limited and is no longer restrictive.  Seeing this first hand further fuels my desire to continue to strive for excellence and introduce more GF products for everyone to enjoy, regardless of one's diet, allergies or restrictions.

Tully and I have a great deal of pride and satisfaction knowing that we are creating a healthy awareness for a new generation ahead!  We have such a fabulous, dedicated Team and our Bakers are second to none in their preparation, high standards and their commitment to GF products.  We welcome all visitors and are confident that you will enjoy your Tu-Lu's experience as much as we do!   - Jen