Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Becca Salmonson, Founder and CEO of Becca's Petites, located in San Rafael, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Becca's Petites is a female-founded natural foods company based in Northern California. At Becca's Petites, our mission is simple: Feed your hunger to live well. We do this by handcrafting incredibly tasty mixes that can be enjoyed any time of the day; any place life takes you. Our Bouchées snack mixes are little bites of plant-based nutty goodness and are available in 4 flavors. Eighty-one percent of our customers are busy moms on the go, looking for a delicious and versatile snack mix to fuel their hectic lifestyles and activities. They are health conscious but don't compromise on taste, nor do we! While we don't take ourselves too seriously, we do take making better-for-you snacks and our tagline "Always nutty. . .Never naughty!" seriously, and that's why we source local and use only the highest quality, certified vegan ingredients with names we promise you can pronounce.
Tell us about yourself
When my good friend and workout partner was diagnosed with terminal cancer and craving sugary-style granola snacks while undergoing chemotherapy treatments, I knew I had to step in and offer something better that would nourish him through the process. I created my snack mixes with no intention of starting a business. When Kevin passed, I felt compelled to make my mixes available for anyone with a passion for living well, and I decided to use proceeds toward his son's education fund. My mother also passed from cancer, so my motivation stems from wanting to honor them while helping others.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Something of which I am incredibly proud is being picked up by the number one supermarket in America, The Fresh Market. The buyer tracked me down at a food show after finding my small account on Instagram.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the most challenging things about being a business owner is doing it as a solopreneur. I handle all aspects of the business, from consumer relations to logistics and financial planning, purchasing, social media, marketing, and more. All failures land squarely on my shoulders, and as a Virgo, I am the most critical of myself.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Align yourself with fellow business owners in your niche that can guide you along the way and be a support system. Look for those who are "doing it right" and learn from them.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help!
- Brace yourself for the roller coaster ride. Some days are up, and some are down, but always stay true to your mission and your "why" - your North Star, so it will always keep you on the right path.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://beccaspetites.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beccaspetites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beccaspetites/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/beccaspetites
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beccaspetites/
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.
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