We’re looking forward to introducing you to Brittany Zaninovich. Check out our conversation below.
Brittany, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My 2 adorable children bring me joy everyday. My son is four and my daughter is two and my days are filled with endless entertainment (and chaos). There is definitely never a dull moment. It is such a beautiful season because they are filled with such wonder, awe, and curiosity for everything around them, it is so inspiring to see! They definitely make everyday moments feel special and completely magical!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a pastry chef, storyteller, and the owner of Taste and Sea Cakery, a cozy cottage bakery in sunny Oceanside, California. Since earning my Baking and Patisserie certificate in 2008, I have been creating sweet treats that celebrate God’s goodness and joy.
As a mama and baker, I believe that God can use even the smallest moments, like baking cookies, to sprinkle truth and wonder into our everyday lives. My newest book that just released October 26, 2025, Baking with Bailey A Sprinkle Doodle Surprise, was born out of that belief. It is a heartwarming story that blends faith, friendship, and fun, reminding families that faith can rise just like dough, one recipe and one giggle at a time.
When I am not frosting cakes or writing stories, I love teaching others how to bake and create with God. The laughter of my two lively kiddos (and another little one on the way due in December) continues to inspire me to slow down, savor the sweet moments, and share them with others.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has most shaped how I see myself is my relationship with God. Growing up, I often looked for identity in what I did, how well I performed, or how others viewed me. But over time, God showed me that my worth does not come from achievements, titles, or the opinions of others. It comes from being fully known and fully loved by Him.
Walking with God has given me a deep sense of confidence. Not the loud kind that tries to prove something, but a quiet boldness that comes from knowing I belong to Him. He is the one who called me into baking, motherhood, and writing, and He continues to remind me that I am equipped for the things He has asked me to do, even when I do not feel that way.
There have been many times when I have doubted myself, questioned my abilities, or felt discouraged by comparison or slow progress. In those moments, God has been the steady voice speaking truth over me, reminding me that I am loved, chosen, and capable through Him. He does not just encourage me from a distance. He strengthens me, fills me with peace, and reminds me that my identity is rooted in who He is, not in what I accomplish.
Because of that, I no longer chase purpose to prove myself. I follow purpose because I am loved. And that has transformed the way I see myself and the work I do.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to keep listening to the passions God placed inside you, even when they don’t make sense to anyone else. Those quiet sparks, the things that make you come alive, are not random. They are part of your purpose. It is okay to not always get it right the first time, and there will be moments when you question your ability, your timing, or even your calling. But not getting it right doesn’t mean you failed. It means you’re growing. Every misstep is shaping you, every delay is preparing you, and every challenge is strengthening the gifts God has already placed in you.
Be patient with yourself. Celebrate tiny progress. Let go of perfection. It is okay to not have it all figured out. And even on the days when you feel like you’re behind, or unsure, or not enough, I want you to know this: you are doing great! You are growing, you are learning, and God is working in ways you won’t understand until later. Trust Him, trust the journey, and don’t forget to enjoy the sweet moments along the way.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I deeply value my husband’s wisdom and insight. There have been so many moments when I have felt uncertain or overwhelmed, and he gently shares a perspective I had not considered. He listens carefully, offers guidance with understanding, and helps me see solutions and possibilities I might have missed on my own. It is in these moments, whether we are making big decisions or navigating the everyday chaos of life with our kiddos, that I am reminded how lucky I am to have someone who not only supports me but strengthens me. His presence, encouragement, and thoughtful guidance make our journey together richer, calmer, and filled with love.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I feel like I am currently in a season of overwhelming joy and celebration! I have been working on my book, Baking with Bailey: A Sprinkle-Doodle Surprise, since I was on bedrest with my firstborn four and a half years ago. This month, I received the first proof of my book, and words cannot describe the joy I felt. It still feels surreal that it is now on Amazon and available for people to purchase.
What makes this journey even more special is my family. Even though my children are young, they regularly tell me, “We are proud of you, Mama.” And my husband is the sweetest, most amazing man, literally messaging everyone he knows, beaming with pride that I wrote a book! Their unconditional love and support melts my heart every single day.
Another incredible milestone came in the first few days after my book went live: it sold several copies and even received the #1 Top New Release badge in a couple of categories. I was in total shock. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine something like that could happen!
Even though the days are long, juggling marketing and being a stay-at-home mom to my very active kiddos, I could not be happier. And while I may not be tap dancing, we are definitely having daily dance parties to celebrate!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brittanyzbooks.com
- Instagram: @bakingwithbaileybooks
- Facebook: Baking with Bailey Books
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/Baking-Bailey-Sprinkle-Doodle-Faith-Filled-Friendship/dp/B0FY4HL7BC/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BP2L38ZP2N1V&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zYjPfJAH3tjHech53Lem9wj56MvH_af7E-uWZEv-Ggp4c44FaHNl37wbXQM14LchowjbdueHIYlEilVfsmKkKmjd7LfCTcGHbCFHsyJP10pOUfx5Z16bJadmNnq8_9rCpEPni0JiBODU1Uv4cuDzHVlQiSLV4airPcupfqIAHIOiB4BrWtLhhW45fKSitHiqmOqBv1NzjIZh2q7mRWcLFNzWDrQDJ7taztclFPJdaUQ.S0YJBq9K4N0ilS6uTx9ApbzQvTOurZ6Uier3MPxKf-E&dib_tag=se&keywords=baking+with+bailey&qid=1762126861&sprefix=baking+with+bailey%2Caps%2C553&sr=8-1
Image Credits
illustrations: Brittany Zaninovich
headshot: Paloma Lisa Photography
