Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nicole Dietz, owner of Fromage du Monde, located in Canton, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a cut-to-order Artisan Cheese & Wine Shop. We curate cheeses from all over the world, tell their stories and share them with you. Our love of cheese speaks to a range of generations, cultural backgrounds, and palates. The history of cheese connects people throughout time and territory. There is always something new to learn from cheesemakers and their chosen genre in terms of milk type and texture.
Tell us about yourself
I began my career as the Sales and Marketing Director for a large off-site catering firm in Northeast Ohio. I love to talk about food; it comes very naturally to me. When contemplating my own business venture, I knew that I wanted it to be rooted in hospitality but definitely not a full-service restaurant. A dine-in deli seemed like the ticket. Artisan cheese, charcuterie, and wine all have stories to tell. This business combines my 2-favorite hobbies, food & history.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is the ability to persevere. We opened Fromage du Monde four months before the pandemic began and the Ohio shut-downs started. Being able to pivot, remain flexible, and still connect with my community was imperative.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of my biggest challenges is the necessary challenge of being all things within the business. We're still young, so although I have help in the shop, I still act as Accountant, Marketing Director, Administrator, Sales Manager, and lead Cheesemonger. There is a lot of pressure to keep several plates spinning at once.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start in a space that you can easily afford and manage. You can always grow; it's much harder to contract.
- Take time off when you need to. Re-charging is a necessary form of self-care when so much rides on your ability to perform.
- Surround yourself with people that fan the flames of your success. If they are poisoning your pond, ask them to leave. If they are supporting you at every turn, hold them close and reward them.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Small business ownership is very rewarding if you're built for it. If you are currently contemplating a business venture and can take the leap...take it. It's well worth it, and you will learn a lot. Mostly about yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fromagecanton.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FromageduMondeCanton
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromagedumonde/
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.