Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Julie Majewski, Director of DEER CAMP® Coffee Roasting Company & Outfitters, located in Sterling Heights, MI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
As seen on television, DEER CAMP® Coffee Roasting Company & Outfitters is a women-owned independent craft roaster of premium coffees designed for the outdoors industry especially known for its smooth tastes and low acidity. It includes licensed products and is a partner of Jordon Outdoors, Ltd., the most recognized camouflage pattern in the world, and features the REALTREE Edge series of coffee products.
Tell us about yourself
My love for coffee as well as my love for my spouse. We share two joys outdoors and coffee. As I celebrated the 20th anniversary of my marriage, it dawned on me the other that my first date with him was at a coffee cafe. Fast forward to today, and I did not expect eight years I have achieved a national brand recognized in the outdoor community as our continued love for coffee. So coffee continues to bring me joy. As a business, what motivates me daily is seeing the connections, memories, and enjoyment I have as well can bring to customers. Regardless of your hunt, someone knows someone who enjoys the outdoors or a person who loves coffee and teas. These customers often make suggestions that motivate them to be better, develop new products, and create experiences for others to enjoy at home or camp.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
In a male-dominated industry, creating a business and brand of products is respected, recognized, and supported by both men and women. Seeing my small business be acknowledged in industry magazines and publications like yours as well by other national brands even in different industries has been humbling.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is having patience and making sure to have a backup in all areas, especially vendors. With Covid and supply chain challenges, you have to problem solve each day. At the end of the day, you control your destiny.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Here are my tips for starting, running, and growing a business. The most and number one thing is to find a service or product you would love to do or sell. This will motivate you and drive your success. Start small, focus on your determined target audience and use grass root marketing or word of mouth to build that business. I have seen many businesses come and go in my industry because out of the gate spend a lot on marketing and advertising. They forget that they have a margin and also need to make money. There are no guarantees on return on advertising investments and why so many businesses fail. Going slow also allows you to see opportunities and paths for growth and success.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Relationships and partnerships are important aspects of helping a business grow.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://deercampcoffee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DEERCAMPCOFFEE/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deercampcoffee/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/deercampcoffee
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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