Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nicole Dietman, founder of Buffalo Rock Winery, located in Buffalo, MN.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Buffalo Rock Winery is a one-woman-owned and operated Minnesota winery located just west of the metro. All the wines I sell, I produce, and bottle on site. I focus on local MN grapes/fruit. Anytime the winery is open, I am available to serve guests, explain my wines and answer questions.
Tell us about yourself
My husband thought he'd need to sweet talk me into leaving the metro in search of more land, so he asked me what I thought of moving outside of the cities, and he added, "and you can start a vineyard!" I was sold! So, in 2007, with the help of eager family and friends, I went over half an acre of vines with more added in 2009. I opened the winery in 2010 knowing that with two toddlers, commuting 80 miles round trip to work each day wasn't going to work well when I wanted to be involved in their daily activities. My kids were my motivation to begin my business, and I continued to be encouraged with every new and returning guest who enjoys one, or several, of the many wines I create!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Celebrating Buffalo Rock Winery's 11th-anniversary last fall was a huge accomplishment! But reflecting on the ups, downs, twists, and turns that have been thrown to small businesses over the last couple of years, any small business owner who's been able to hold on should hold his/her head high. I also enjoy the opportunity a business owner affords me to contribute to the community by being involved in chambers, donating to charities, and supporting fundraisers. A community is only as strong as the small businesses that make it great.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The most challenging part of being a business owner is balancing time. There's always something that needs to be done. Always. But, my family comes first. Whether it's coaching a sport, cheering on a team, teaching faith formation, volunteering at school, or giving rides to their activities, it's simply not possible to be in two places at the same time. Sometimes that means the winery isn't open, and sometimes that means I miss out on watching a volleyball or baseball game, but I always look forward to the post-game recap!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First and foremost, find something you are passionate about that will keep you self-motivated because no one is going to be there to tell you what to do each day!
Second, surround yourself with positive people. There's no reason to hang with anyone who tells you can't do what you want to achieve.
Finally, protect yourself. Insurance might be deemed a necessary evil, but it is essential. Have enough coverage and the right coverage for your business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Take the risk. No one wants to live to regret a risk they never took.
Where can people find you and your business?
https://www.facebook.com/buffalorockwinery
https://www.instagram.com/buffalorockwinery/
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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