Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Katharine Elder, executive chef, and owner of Elderslie Farm, located in Valley Center, KS, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Elderslie Farm encompasses a you-pick blackberry farm, fine dining restaurant, seasonal cafe, goat dairy, creamery and sawmill, and fine woodworking division, all of which strive to celebrate and elevate the stuff of our region. We serve locals, travelers, gourmands, and families, all looking to enjoy the best of what Kansas has to offer.
Tell us about yourself
I love to travel. I love quintessential little villages in Europe and the pace of life there. We set out to create a lasting business here to celebrate Kansas but with an old-world approach to life, quality of products, and the 'why' behind work. I remain motivated every day as I watch the frantic pace of life for so many and am constantly bombarded by the noise of rampant consumerism. I believe that we need more than that - we need authentic, substantive experiences and relationships to both one another and the Earth.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I believe that we have been able to serve our community well, employees included, by providing something special and unique to the region. We are dedicated to caring for the land as well as the people with which we interact each day. We pursue authentic hospitality and seek to create respite through sincere service and a refined approach to all we do.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most difficult pieces of being an owner is leading with sincere optimism each day and taking an unwavering approach to quality in every little detail, no matter how tedious.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Write a mission statement not only for your business but for your life.
- Surround yourself with people, employees, and coworkers included, who challenge you to grow while helping you not to stray from the core of who you are and what you're after.
- Balance your expectations for lifestyle with where you hope to be, not in 5 years, but in 20.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://eldersliefarm.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eldersliefarm/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eldersliefarm/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/eldersliefarm
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elderslie-farm/
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.