Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marc Rothenberg, founder, and CEO of Em & Oli Treats, located in Aurora, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I create delicious dairy-free biscotti, though you'd NEVER guess I left the dairy out. My target demographic is people that are trying to avoid dairy for whatever reason. Have you looked through the grocery store's dessert section? Milk and butter are EVERYWHERE, and most dairy-free options sacrifice flavor. Not me! One bite of my Classic or Espresso Chocolate, and you'll never guess that butter didn't go near it.
Tell us about yourself
My two kids, Emma and Oliver, were my inspiration to launch my business. After far too many potlucks and holiday parties where there were no desserts my kids could have, I started making my own. People loved them, and the rest is history.
Knowing that I have an amazing product and LOVE baking and cooking keeps this interesting for me and motivates me. Coming up with new business ideas and the vision of growing a company from scratch keep this dream alive.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment so far is getting through my first year officially registered. Launching mid-pandemic, finishing my MBA, and starting a new job made the last 12 months super crazy and provided TONS of opportunities to simply quit. Keeping my "doors open" for a full year makes me very proud.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balancing the multiple facets of my life is a struggle that I am still working on. I try to show up as a father, husband, employee, and business owner while still needing to find time to take care of myself. It's hard, and keeping my eyes on the future and hearing my kids beg for biscotti makes it all worthwhile.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Go for it! You'll never know how amazing you could be until you try.
- Ready. Fire. Aim. Sometimes you just need to start your business, then let things figure themselves out on the fly.
- Network with others. I have been fortunate to know many entrepreneurs and business people and love hearing their stories. Most are more than happy to share some of their lessons learned.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/EmAndOliTreats
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmAndOliTreats
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emandolitreats/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcrothenberg/
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.