Make Your Own Favorite Cheese

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Leon Graafland, Owner of Cheesemaking Classes Toronto, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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

We offer Private Cheesemaking classes to people interested in making their own cheeses at home.

Tell us about yourself

Everybody loves cheese. Not that many people know how to make it. Like many people during Covid, my other activities slowed down, and I was looking for new interests. At the beginning of the pandemic, a local college started the first year of professional Artisan Cheesemaking classes, and I jumped right on it. I am an infotainer, and there is no more gratification than explaining a complicated process in simple steps while people are amazed and excited watching milk transform into fresh cheese. The fact that I grew up in Gouda might have raised my excitement.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

It is a small business. It is a fun business. I don't want to be big and prefer to grow slowly. If there is an accomplishment, it is that I have no disappointed customers. If you book a cheese class, I guarantee you a tasteful show. It is more an event than a class.

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

I have not figured this out yet. The moment I do, I probably quit. I love my independence, love the work, and the enthusiasm of my clientele after a good workshop. My excitement for the product and the workshop is radiant. You can't lose your edge for a day to stay successful. And that is hard sometimes.

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

Believe in yourself and in your product.
Don't be afraid to fail. This only makes you stronger.
Have some fun because your clientele will see this confidence and fun as a success.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.cheesemakingclassestoronto.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-graafland-2a1a43a/

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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