Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sara Cox, Owner of Catering, by Chef Cox & Co., located in Saint Louis, MO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a high-end Catering service that specializes in events in clients' homes. We offer several different platforms that range from personal chef services, private coursed dinner parties, appetizers + hors d'oeuvres, to weekly meal plans, corporate events, and out-of-town events.
Tell us about yourself
My first restaurant job was when I was 17 years old and in my Senior Year of High School. I knew that I wanted to be a Chef since I was 13 years old, and once I graduated from High School, I enrolled at Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College in Birmingham, Alabama. I have always loved food and how it can bring family and friends together, and that was directly influenced by my Grandfather, Nolan Scott Williams, and my Parents, Rick & Patricia.
What motivates me every day is the idea that through my food, I can be a part of long-lasting moments in people's lives. Our sense of taste is directly connected with the part of the brain that stores memories and the knowledge that being able to prepare a meal for a special occasion can always be linked with a memory is so magical to me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Being a business owner! What can I say? I came from a line of entrepreneurs and was raised by two parents who always taught me that it is always better to be in business for yourself. My career has been so blessed and fruitful but being able to be my own boss and, through my business, prosper others is truly the greatest blessing.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I would say the pressure of having to make ends meet without a guaranteed income. While it is hard, it is definitely where I want to be - trusting in my God to provide on a daily basis.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I would say my number one tip would be to have a very clear definition of who you are and what you do.
Tip two would be, no matter how tempted you are or how hard it gets, don't ever break away from that identity - you'll always keep the right customers if you stay true to who you are.
And finally, put in the work - if you do what you love, that won't be hard - you're going to work more mentally than perhaps physically because you're always going to be thinking and planning, strategizing growth, and problem-solving, but it will be rewarding because you're investing in yourself and family.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.chefcoxcateringco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChefCoxCateringCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefcoxcateringco/
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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