Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chyna Johnson, owner of Get Stuffed Wpg, located in Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are in the business of cookies! But not just any cookies, stuffed cookies only! Our main customers are those who are looking to bring something fun and unique to a dinner party, picnic, birthday celebration, even baby showers! Cake and cupcakes are overrated and overplayed, but this brings a new and fun element to the equation!
Tell us about yourself
It all started while I was at home on maternity leave. I needed something to fill my time and give me some mental stimulation. What keeps me motivated to do what I do is the amazing reviews that I get. People are always messaging me saying how good they are or how big they were, or even how their dinner wasn’t going that great, and then dessert came, and it was such a big hit it turned the night around. With being a parent, you missed out on a lot of ‘me’ time, and so when I’m at my commercial kitchen baking, this is how I take back some of that ‘me’ time.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think my biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being profitable in the same year that business began and putting out multiple corporate orders over the Christmas season totaling close to half of our income.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
When life gets busy, your business does not stop. You still need to maintain your marketing and advertising and keep your name out there no matter how tired you may be. To me, this is the hardest thing, life truly does get in the way of life sometimes, and you just got to make it all fit.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My top step would be networking with other small businesses. They are really the backbone of any local market. It really helps to know other people who can help you get off in the right direction. The second would be to find a vendor that is willing to carry your product. I use a few different vendors, and they not only market my product but store it on-site. They take care of all the online sales and shipping, etc. All I need to do is make my product and get it to them. My third and final tip will be if you do not have management experience, then take a course. This will help you not only in your day-to-day life but help in managing and marketing your business itself.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Even if your idea isn’t necessarily original, like a specialty cupcake or cookies or cake in general, find something that makes your brand unique and run with it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://getstuffedwpg.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getstuffedwpg/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getstuffedwpg/
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.
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