Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christopher Cooper, Founder of Simply Q LLC. dba Cooper's Provisions Smoked Sea Salts and Blends, located in Bethlehem, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a small manufacturing company in Bethlehem, GA, that specializes in producing hand-crafted, gourmet Smoked Sea Salts and blends. Most of our retailers are boutique butcher shops and high-end gourmet food stores. Our customers are Foodies that enjoy elevating the flavor of what they cook with Smoke and Salt!
Tell us about yourself
I am a retired school teacher and veteran. Always passionate about cooking great food outdoors, I started tinkering around with smoked salt while competing on the professional BBQ circuit. My thoughts were that if we could elevate the flavor of the salt, we cooked with, that would also elevate the flavor of the product we turn into the judges. It worked! But our secret didn't last long before others showed an interest in the smoked seasonings...which led to making the product marketable. People who use our seasonings have a deep appreciation for good food and the use of good ingredients. I am motivated each day to provide a unique and tasty ingredient that will make these customers smile.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Actually, taking a passionate hobby from my backyard and turning it into an actual business.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There is no safety net! My previous two careers in education and the military were quite stable and offered ample upward mobility and a consistent paycheck. Now it's all up to me!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your research.
- Stay motivated and passionate.
- Become familiar with, or find somebody who is and can help you with social media.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Most of my adult life's work has revolved around service of some kind...either in the classroom or on the battlefield. It is quite refreshing to become an entrepreneur where I can try to make it on my own, serving the community one flavorful pinch of smoky flavor, one bite at a time!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.coopersprovisions.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coopersprovisionssmokedseasalt/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.coopersprovisions/
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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