Certified Tea Master Somellier - Daniel's Chai Bar
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Daniel Lewis, founder of Daniel's Chai Bar, located in Brampton, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Daniel's Chai Bar is a brand that is committed to changing how people see the world, using tea as a vehicle. We started out as a small tea cafe located in the heart of Downtown Brampton, which became very well known for our extremely popular (lactose-free) chai latte, called "The Famous Lion Chai," which was served to His Royal Highness Prince Charles - The Prince of Wales in 2017.
Tell us about yourself
I've always believed that great businesses start with "WHY," and great people are driven by purpose. It was by this truth that I personally understood the meaning of success in my life. True success is achieved when one can harness the ability to impact people's lives in a positive way.
I am a storyteller. My mission is to help inform and inspire the thought leaders of tomorrow by sharing stories, providing insights, challenging perspectives, and igniting creativity among those with who I am privileged to connect. The power and ability of a human being to leave a positive and lasting impression on another human being is what motivates me every day and is the reason I continue to use my business as a means of achieving this.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest achievement as a business owner was being invited to serve tea to HRH, The Prince of Wales, not only because of who he is but more so as a testament that one can truly go from tragedy to triumph as I have.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balance & productivity are very challenging aspects of being a business owner. Every day I'm faced with the decision of determining what is most important and then executing a plan to achieve it. This is no easy task.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- The Secret to succeeding in business is in the first two letters of business... BU!" (always be authentic in what you do.
- Stay organized and plan out your day, week, month, year. The organization is SUPER important to being successful in business.
- Love people. Remember that no matter what you do or offer, you're in the people business. People over policy. Never get so caught up in the formalities of business that you forget to impact someone's life in a positive way. Business is just a tool, not a final product.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Cultivate a positive perspective about setbacks... because THEY WILL HAPPEN. My dad told me, "our setbacks are designed to propel us farther in life." he is so right. Good luck!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://danielschaibar.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamdanielca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdaniel.ca/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/iAMDanielca
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lewis-13511037/
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.