Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary Jankowski, owner of Coffee Cats, located in West Des Moines, IA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Coffee Cats, a cat cafe, Iowa's first and only cat cafe, in West Des Moines, Iowa. Our customers range in age from very young to very old, cat lovers and curiosity seekers, coffee lovers, and others who are looking for a relaxing, unique experience.
Tell us about yourself
I am a recently, mostly retired, licensed mental health counselor who was looking for a second career when I came across an article about a cat cafe in another state. After checking it out and talking to local businesses and government entities, I decided that this was something I could do in retirement. Three years later, in July 2020, in the middle of COVID, I opened Coffee Cats. Customers tell us all the time that our place is relaxing and comfortable. This motivates me daily, as well as being able to share that we have adopted over 1000 cats for the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in a little over 2.5 years.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was being able to open and run a successful business, especially during COVID, adopt over 1000 cats, and provide employment for people in the Des Moines area.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things as a solo business owner is being the one person responsible for the cafe and its operation.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My top three tips for someone thinking about opening a business today are to develop a solid business plan, network with others who have expertise/information that could help run the business and find enjoyment and have fun in what you do.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.coffeecatscafe.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoffeeCatsWDM/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coffeecatswdm/
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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