Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alfred Canzano, owner of J Emanuel Chocolatier, located in Chester, NJ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a small business making artisan chocolates (Truffles, Toffee's, Barks, Molded Items, etc.). Our customers come from all over NJ, and we ship nationally. As most of your readers already know, small artisan shops are a dying breed. We must compete against larger, cheaper mass producers of chocolate products. Our customers understand that it is worth paying a little more for superior quality and taste than can be found at department stores, Supermarkets, and Wholesale outlets.
Tell us about yourself
I left my corporate IT position of 30 years. I transitioned into this small business of offering unique and high-quality products. I viewed it as an opportunity to serve my community and to educate my children on the inner workings and appreciation of growing up in a family business. I have been in this business now for ten years. The company has been serving the community for 25 years.
I look forward to the challenges that are presented to me every day as a small business owner. With every setback comes the award I receive from my customers who Thank me for doing what I have chosen to do.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I took this business that was running in the red and turned it around in a few short years.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Lack of time for being with my family at home. Also, shortage of help, which would allow me to increase business reach and spend more time with my family.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
You need the support of your family to start a business. You need a good cash reserve to carry you through the beginning stages. You need to find trustworthy, hardworking employees. Good employees are the key to keeping the business on course. You can't run a business by yourself!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://jemanuel.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jemanuel.chocolatier.5
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jemanuel_chocolates/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-canzano-411455/
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.