Life & Work with Cindy Newman of Hendersonville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Newman.

Hi Cindy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey started back in 2006, while serving in the military, when a friend showed me her crochet work and taught me a few basic stitches. My very first project was a lopsided scarf (which I still have!), and that small beginning sparked a lifelong love of making things by hand. Over the years, I made blankets, scarves, and hats here and there, but it was more of a hobby—until the summer of 2024.

At the time, I was vending freeze-dried snacks at a local farmer’s market when a friend asked if she could display a few of her crochet items at my booth. When she set them out, I was instantly inspired. I bought a chicken pattern that same week, and before I knew it, I was creating my own little crochet animals and characters. Seeing the smiles on kids’ faces each week gave me so much joy—and that joy has fueled the crochet side of my business ever since.

But crochet isn’t the only part of my story.

I’ve always been a bit of a homesteader as a single mama raising three kids. Over the years, I found real comfort in preserving food—canning and dehydrating for my family and friends. One day, while watching YouTube videos, I came across freeze-drying and was instantly hooked. After doing some research, I made the big decision to invest in a freeze-dryer in the spring of 2023. My goal was simple: sell enough to pay it off. That summer, I sold out of my freeze-dried fruits and candy within hours at the market, and word spread quickly. Other vendors were curious—and my business took off from there.

Today, I freeze-dry a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, snacks, and candy. I also make custom freeze-dried meals for hikers, campers, and travelers who need lightweight, convenient food options for their adventures.

Whether it’s a hand-stitched animal to bring a smile or a sweet, crunchy treat to satisfy a craving, everything I create comes from a place of love, creativity, and care.

Thanks for being here and supporting this wild and wonderful journey

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Everything comes with sacrifices but I’m always up for the challenge. My road starts with my relationship with Jesus. He has walked with us every step. Although there are struggles, me and my kids lean on Jesus to pave our way. I’m very thankful for my struggles and blessings over the years, they have made me who I am today.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My career began at 19 years old when I enlisted in the United States Air Force. I started out as a jet engine mechanic working on B-1 bombers, stationed in Southern California. After leaving active duty, I joined the Air National Guard in 1996 as an aeromedical flight technician—essentially, a flight medic on C-130s. I served in that role until 2003, when I transitioned into a full-time civilian federal employee position, working for the commander of a logistics squadron.

In 2009, I became a Special Security Officer within an intelligence unit, where I continued to serve until my retirement in November 2022. Throughout my career, I had the opportunity to travel extensively and build meaningful relationships with people from all walks of life. I feel incredibly blessed to have had such a fulfilling and diverse career.

Now retired, I’ve shifted my focus to my passion project—my side business, LooHoo’s Loop Lounge & Freeze Dried Bites

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Im pretty much an open book. I honestly don’t have an answer for this.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loohoos.loop.lounge.fd.bites?igsh=YzFmOGI3djh1ZG4%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19o5TEucGS/?mibextid=wwXIfr