Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mandi Lee, Owner of Grace & Butter, located in Advance, MO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Grace & Butter is a food service focused on quality desserts and meals aimed at creating memorable food experiences. My customer base is anyone who eats!
Tell us about yourself
I didn't come from a baking family. The women in my life are straight-up cooks. I learned everything I know about baking in small St. Louis apartments over the course of the last seven years. Cookbooks, Youtube, talented friends. I utilized all these resources, thus bringing joy to people through food.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I started Grace & Butter in 2020, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Was it crazy? Yes, very much so. It's only grown, and I can't imagine never taking the first step. It's changed my life. I'm very proud of my successes.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Work/Life Balance. Every small business owner I know will tell you that they work 24/7 and no one is lying. I have to make rest and fun a priority. I have to turn my phone off even though there are emails to answer. I have to call it quits before I get too tired and make a stupid mistake sometimes. It's a learning process, and it's necessary.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- If you are not self-motivated, you will not be able to make it as a business owner.
- Fail fast to learn what you need to be doing to succeed.
- Ask for advice from the people who are where you want to be.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://graceandbutter.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graceandbutter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graceandbutter/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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