Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dacyion Reid, chef, owner of Dacy’s Gourmet Kitchen (DGK), located in Brampton, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I love and care about what I do. My objective is to combine creativity, passion, and professionalism in the dishes and services I provide. My mission is to bring people together by offering my clients freshly made, healthy, delicious, and well-presented meals to satisfy any taste bud and an experience to remember.
Tell us about yourself
I graduated from Culinary school at the beginning of the pandemic. I was home with my kids and scared out of my mind with all the deaths; all the government restrictions that were put in place were a lot to deal with. For the first time in a long time, I was; still, my ten alarms were now turned off because I had nowhere to go and nothing to do outside. I would post meals that I made, and I was encouraged to start selling food. After all, I went to school to be a chef. Eventually, I said I’ll take a leap of faith and just test the waters. I posted my first menu on Instagram, and things kicked off from there. Most of my business came from referrals, and the word spread, and my business took off.
I’m motivated to be a better version of myself today than I was yesterday; my kids also motivated me to keep pushing. I’m trying to build a legacy to pass on to them. Having happy and repeated customers is definitely motivating. The ability to be financially healthy able to pay off some debts and clear some bills. They are the motivation that keeps me going.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is taking the leap of faith and becoming an entrepreneur. I’ve had the opportunity to meet and embrace my customers; I’ve shared special occasions with them, cooking for them on their special occasions such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries, and just family gatherings.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It’s hard to narrow it down to just one; dealing with daily challenges of the unknown that arise from running a business, I try to be prepared; however, the business operations are t always predictable. The hardest thing of all I must say is taking time for myself to rest and unplug and enjoy family time.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- I’d encourage them to have a plan; within that plan have different stages of growth and development for the business.
- Do marketing research to find out their target audience.
- Find a funding/grants program that can help give you a push start. It could also include mentorship and networking.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It’s easier said than done, but whatever you do, keep going, be consistent, be confident, and don’t compare your progress to someone else, which will cause doubts to start sinking in where it doesn’t belong.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://dacyion.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dacysgourmetkitchen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dacysgourmet_kitchen/
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.