Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Bryan Satterford Owner of Juke Fried Chicken / Chickadee Room, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm one of the Owners/Operators of Juke Fried Chicken and the Chickadee room in Vancouver's Chinatown. We are lucky to have a wide customer base. We try to be accessible to everyone who is craving great fried chicken or a well-made Cocktail.
Tell us about yourself
My partner, Justin, and I were both working as managers in upscale restaurants when we first discussed Juke. We both wanted to own a place that was accessible, so everyone could come in and have a bite, a drink or two, and just hang out. Somewhere fun and casual where you could come as you are, not get dressed up for or only come for a special occasion. I think that still rings true today.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I feel very fortunate with the way Juke was able to negotiate with COVID. We were incredibly lucky to have had takeout as a big part of our business before, so the pivot to only doing take-out business was an easier one than most people faced. Because of this, we could keep everyone employed during this difficult time, and this I am most proud of.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Whether it's good or bad, the buck stops with you as the owner. If it's a staff member that isn't doing their job correctly, some equipment breaks down, or a customer complains, even though you probably have a management structure in place, everything ultimately reflects on how well you, as an owner, have set up your business. From training, operating systems, or staff culture, for better or for worse, it is all a reflection of your leadership ability.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- I know it's a cliche thing to say, but if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life. Plus, customers and employees can feel when something is genuine, so if you are true to yourself and are involved in something that excites you, that excitement is contagious.
- If you are getting into business with a partner, pick them as you would pick a spouse. Be sure it is someone you can trust with your life, have hard, critical conversations with without insulting them, and someone you don't mind talking to every day.
- Be flexible. Sometimes, aspects of your business don't work. What you had in your mind as the direction when you first started out doesn't work (or half works). Be nimble and ready to make adjustments. Don't get caught up in being stubborn about something that clearly isn't working.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jukefriedchicken.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jukefriedchicken
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jukefriedchicken/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-satterford-160aa19b/
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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