Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brittany Chesley, owner of Grizzee Coffee, located in Colorado Springs, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Grizzee is an online coffee business. We roast specialty-grade coffee to order and have a mission of fueling adventures between people and their pets. Our customers are avid adventurers or dog lovers who enjoy great coffee and need that kick of fuel throughout the week.
Tell us about yourself
I started working with dogs at the age of 15 and began my own pet care business at 18. I quickly gained a love for animals at a really young age, and when my pup Grizzly (cockapoo) entered my life, I had no idea just how much he would impact me. We get outdoors for exercise every day, and enjoying the beauty of nature with each other's company has always been important to me. This encouraged me to start an outdoor brand named after him. That's where the name Grizzee came from. Coupled with my love for good coffee, the idea was born to make Grizzee a coffee business and fuel adventures between people and their pets. I wanted to take it one step further. I understand not all pets have found their furever adventure partners yet. We committed to donating 10% of all profits to help support homeless pets from day 1, doing our part in helping all pets have their chance at adventure. My motivation to keep building this business is not only my love for my dog and providing quality coffee, but also being mission-driven gives us something much bigger to work towards.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say my biggest accomplishment as a business owner is not giving up because being an entrepreneur is certainly a tough road. It will test your limits, make you want to give up, and failures and setbacks are inevitable. If you can endure all the hardships, learn from every failure, and push onward, you have accomplished a huge hurdle, and it takes believing in yourself and your dreams.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is the commitment you need to all areas of your business. Especially when getting started, you have to wear many hats and learn the ins and outs of every department. Marketing, sales, finances, hiring, product developments, order fulfillment, customer support, website, and social media, the list can go on and on. Learning to manage your schedule and make sure every part of your business is being nurtured is important.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My top 3 tips for someone looking to start, run, or grow a business would be:
First, start a business you're passionate about. You'll be dedicating lots of time, money, and resources to your business, so it's important you don't lose interest and risk giving up.
Second, don't give up. Be consistent and willing to adapt to market needs, educate yourself, and find out what works and what does not work.
Third, make sure to maintain a healthy work/life balance. You are much more productive and effective if you're finding fulfillment in all areas of your life.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.grizzee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grizzeecoffee
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grizzeecoffee/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Grizzeecoffee
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.