Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nick Hoefly, beekeeper, and owner of Astor Apiaries, located in New York City, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our business is bees. We are urban beekeepers and honey producers. Our customers are from all walks of life but generally are focused on good whole food and environmental responsibility.
Tell us about yourself
I started with honey bees as a hobby. The hobby took flight, and after about a year, I opened our apiary. This was a big change from my former life in the film/television industry. I am motivated by my endless fascination with the bees. Being able to spend time outdoors as part of my work has really changed my quality of life.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Starting the apiary was my biggest accomplishment. We have certainly grown over the years and landed some wonderful clients, but if I never took the leap to try this as a business, I'd still be stuck in an office behind a computer.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about being a business owner is the fact that there is no one else to do what needs to be done, especially in the beginning. Even as our business has grown, most of the vital tasks are still on my plate.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- While working lean and throwing a lot of ideas into production without too much planning can get you moving fast initially, there's no substitute for putting in the time on a Business Plan and focusing on a specific market/product. Trying to do everything at once seems like a smart way to go, but it will ultimately hold you back.
- Put systems in place for all of your online 'things.' Everything from email to calendars to your website and more should have a documented procedure so you can eventually pass off administrative tasks to an assistant.
- Figure out the areas of your business where you are weak and find people to take them over. This isn't always possible immediately, but you can make a list of these areas and start to outsource them as you grow.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://astorapiaries.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astorapiaries
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astorapiaries/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/astorapiaries
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astorapiaries/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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