Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Andrea Brassart, co-owner of Cassis Bistro, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

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

The Cassis Bistro is a little piece of the South of France right here in the heart of Calgary. We wanted to offer a casual space to share fresh, delicious, approachable French cuisine. We believe that all-important and meaningful conversations happen at the table. That table should make you feel like you are at home, whether you are with a group of people or dining alone. That table should always include good food, good wine, and good conversation.

Tell us about yourself

My husband Gilles is from France and was a restauranteur in San Francisco. When we moved to Calgary to raise our kids, we were excited about all the incredible local farmers and vendors in Alberta. We dreamt of bringing a little piece of France to Calgary, showcasing Alberta's beautiful produce. Finding a kindred spirit in Executive Chef Dominique Moussu, the philosophy and flavours of Cassis emerged. We love our community and are inspired by their unwavering support.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The restaurant industry has an astronomical amount of staff turnover. We take great pride in our ability to retain staff. We have minimal turnover, which is extremely rare in our industry. We are very grateful for our team.

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

Definitely, maneuvering through a two-year pandemic. The pandemic decimated our industry, and we found creative ways to get delicious, high-quality food to our clients. This quick response kept our business doors open.

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

  1. Know your brand and prioritize your business's brand at all costs.
  2. Thorough research. You need to deeply understand your brand, product, market, and customer.
  3. Hire the right people. Your employees are a reflection of the heart of your brand. You cannot do it alone.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Entrepreneurship requires lots of perseverance and grit. Make sure self-care is regularly practiced. Joy is essential to entrepreneurial happiness.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.thecassisbistro.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CassisBistro/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassisbistro/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cassisbistro

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.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.