Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Leighton Murdock, Founder & CEO of Aroma Culinary, located in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Aroma Culinary is my quality crafted selection of THC and CBD-infused sauces, seasonings, and organic olive oils. Our customers are men or women from the ages of 30 and up, looking to enhance their dining experience whilst also being able to ease stress and promote relaxation with the enjoyment of a meal. Our customers are used to micro-dosing, which aids in the relief of so many stressors that we face.
Tell us about yourself
I'm a Brooklyn, NY native, and after graduating from the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), I began my journey as a private chef and then most recently tapped into the cannabis space. Being a seasoned globetrotter, it's allowed me to uniquely create a diverse range of traditional ethnic, and modern contemporary dishes. A bit of the motivation behind the creation of Aroma Culinary was the diagnosis of cancer by a close family member. I created dishes with CBD to help ease their pain. After that, I began crafting and thinking of how I could bridge the gap between my infused creations and health/wellness and, in turn, debunk any myths people may have about CBD/THC.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is becoming a business owner. Entrepreneurs face so many hurdles when starting out. We're 2-3 yrs in, and it's still a battle but one I have no problem fighting because, at the end of the day, it's MY dream. Something I built with my team so I can stand on it. For me, failure isn't an option. I had this vision, and I'm just grateful that I have the opportunity to create it. My team, family, and friends believe in me, so there is no way I can fail.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I think I mentioned it before, but the hardest thing is the setbacks. But really, setbacks are just small things that set you up for a major comeback!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be patient - patient with the business and patient with yourself. Reward yourself for showing up. It's not easy and won't get easier, but as your pour into the business, it will pour into you.
- Don't compare - don't watch anyone else, and don't compare yourself to anyone else. Obviously easier said than done because social media is the biggest critic but trust in yourself. Trust that no one is you, and they won't be you. Doesn't matter if they have the same business or idea as you - you are not them, and they are not YOU!
- Find Support - Make sure you have a village and a support system that shows up for you. The ones that will never waiver. Those will be your biggest cheerleaders. Those are the ones who will purchase your product, repost your promotion, show up at every event, etc. Keep them around!!!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.aromaculinary.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aromaculinary
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aromaculinary/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-murdock-4ba2a552/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.