Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brenda Young, Owner of Bee’s Sweet Eats, located in Charlotte, NC, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I have a home baking business where the majority of my items are custom orders for special events. My customers are a combination of friends, family, co-workers, and classmates. My community has been very supportive and has referred me to their friends and family as well. I’ve so grateful for all the love that’s shown from my customers.

Tell us about yourself

I’ve been baking since I was sixteen years old. I baked for family and friends because I loved doing it, and I watched my mom bake all of my childhood. I began to bake more after college when I didn’t pass my board exam to receive my certification in Athletic Training.

Not being able to pass that exam was heartbreaking for me, and baking became a form of therapy. I baked so much to the point that turning it into a profitable business was the only step to take next.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I think the biggest accomplishment for me as a business owner is surviving a pandemic. There were so many small businesses that didn’t make it through any phase of the pandemic, so I’m grateful. Along with some of the connections I’ve been able to build with other businesses during that time as well.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things is having grace for yourself. As a business owner, the responsibility falls on you, and ultimately the success of the business is guided by the choices you make. Getting to the point where you are free enough to not be too hard on yourself, understand that every day is a chance to get better and that you are human and you won’t get it right every time.

Sometimes it’s easy to play the comparison game but to continue to develop your craft to present your business the way God gave it to you is the best way to operate. In that process, grace is needed.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

No matter how many businesses there are doing the same thing, you are the only one doing it, so go for it. If you can find a mentor or coach in your preferred industry that you’re going into, reach out to them and soak up as much knowledge as possible. There’s a difference between being busy and being productive.

Every moment counts in business. Any time worked could be money earned but understand that money isn’t the only valuable currency. Taking time to rest, sleep, and spend time with family are valuable currencies that get lost in the midst of busy work. Find the work-life balance that works for you because it won’t consistently be the same, but it’s necessary for the longevity of your business.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

It took me a few years to start my business because I felt the home baking business was saturated and couldn’t use what I had to offer. For anyone reading this, whether you are considering starting a business, starting over with a business idea, or switching careers, whatever it may be, know that you’re enough. No one could be you or replace you in this world. So, start.

Where can people find you and your business?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeesSweetEats
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beessweeteats/

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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