Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephen Pynn, chef, owner of ColdWater Foods & Cafe, located in Carbonear, NL, Canada.

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

We have a restaurant and are in the process of working on our grocerant (small specialty grocery/ready-made meals, in-season products...) We source as many local ingredients and products as we can find, and everything is made in-house. The menu and features are diverse and varied, often with a nod to the traditional with our own spin, of course. Our guests are as varied as our recipes. Locals from the area and from around the island, tourists, foodies, local business lunches.

Tell us about yourself

I've been in this business for the last 20 years and always wanted my own business with the help of my partners that has become a reality. I believe what motivates all of us is trying to create food that gives people cravings and an environment where they feel comfortable, and well looked after.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Aside from doing most of the in-depth renovations ourselves (with some help along the way), I'd have to say it is our success with staffing. Surrounding ourselves with the best and brightest people, we could find pushes us every day and creates an exciting work environment.

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

It's such a personal business that you have to try hard to separate yourself from things that can be out of your control, not take things personally, and maintain a work/family balance. We all have young children.

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

  1. Surround yourself with the best people you can find and treat them with respect.
  2. Understand there will be a failure and setbacks. Learn quickly from these and move forward.
  3. Listen to your customers. That doesn't necessarily mean to cater to every whim, but it's important to build trust so that they will come back again and again.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Working for yourself and building a brand doesn't shut off on "days off." Being brave can be difficult and scary, and the risks and fears don't end once the business is open. You have to be up for an adventure!

Where can people find you and your business?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ColdWater2020/

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.