Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Janel Hill, Founder of Hills Kitchen Idaho, located in Boise, ID, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hills Kitchen Idaho is a meal prep company that offers healthy on-the-go food. We make everything from scratch and use fresh, quality ingredients in all our dishes. We can fit into any medical dietary needs (diabetics, kidney/cardiac, GF, Celiac, etc.). Those looking for healthy on-the-go alternatives come to us to fill their bellies without sacrificing nutrition.
Tell us about yourself
Welcome to the Hills Kitchen family! I am Janel, owner/operator/chef/recipe creator of Hills Kitchen Idaho. I developed a love for cooking in my late 20s. I am not professionally trained, but rather let my passion, curiosity, and knack for blending flavors be my guide! Food does not have to be boring or bland to be healthy!
In the fall of 2020, my team of physicians placed me on a cardiac and kidney diet. I was sure I would never be able to enjoy food again, given the overwhelming restrictions associated with those diets. As I began to navigate how to work within these perimeters I had been given to maintaining my health, Hills Kitchen Idaho was born. I recognized that I am not in the minority in needing finto find foods that still made me salivate yet fit within my dietary limitations. There are tasty substitutions for just about everything!
I strive to provide healthy, fresh, beautiful food that sparks your salivary glands while being convenient and quick. Your relationship with food should be a positive one. Food is our fuel. It is also love - that brings us together. I look forward to bringing my table to yours. I promise to always season each dish with a dash of love, a sprinkle of passion, and a pinch of heart.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Having the guts to start a business and continue to expand and grow without sacrificing quality, integrity, customer service, and maintaining a smile and positive attitude! Most recently, I made the leap to open my brick-and-mortar establishment. A goal I am incredibly proud of accomplishing before my 2nd anniversary of starting my own business.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Being a business owner is a 24-hour job. You don't have the luxury of clocking out and being done with work until you clock back in again. There are sacrifices in time spent with my kids due to the constant attention growing a business. My family and kids are incredibly supportive and are my biggest cheerleaders. This definitely helps to make those sacrifices easier!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't be afraid to go for your dreams. If it doesn't scare you, you aren't dreaming big enough!
- Do your homework. There is so much that goes into starting a business. Talk to those who have been there and listen to their advice!
- Things will go wrong. You will have failures. But your persistence and passion will bring more victories. Stick with it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://hillskitchenidaho.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HillsKitchenIdahoLLC/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hills_kitchen_idaho_llc/
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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