Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food service but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Crystal Powell, Founder of KANVAS, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
KANVAS is a high-end private chef and food styling company. We cater for weddings, private and social events. Preparing extraordinary cuisine with an impeccable presentation.
Our chefs have a true passion for food and utilize simple, fresh ingredients in creative ways in all of their dishes. We take pride in collaborating closely with our clients and listening to their vision. No matter the size or style of your celebration, we will build a menu and dining experience that fits your needs.
Tell us about yourself
Growing up with a family that shared the same passion, I fell in love with the kitchen at a very young age while watching my father, a pastry chef, and my mother, a graphic artist. After graduating from Sir Sanford Fleming in Culinary Management while finishing a dual co-op chef apprenticeship. I earned my way to become the Sous Chef at Casa Loma in 2010. Later down the road, I worked for other restaurants and caterers across the city, training under various chefs to learn extensive culinary skills.
In 2014 I earned some of the highest praises from respectable clients and for my management assets as Head Chef at a catering company I helped brand. It was then, in late 2017, that I decided to go out on my own with a few fellow chef friends. Taking the wealth of experience to create something that other foodies could experience called "Kanvas." When I'm not in the kitchen, most of my spare time is spent with my son or planning my next business venture!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Honestly, I think I have too many things to mention; all I know is that any challenges that come my way, I do with a smile and a positive mindset. The reward/ accompaniment is knowing that my clients are happy and grateful for the service my team provides for them.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Build a solid foundation for your business structure. Whether it's your product, brand, and service you want to provide to your clients and making sure you time manage yourself in everything you do and problem-solving things that come up or are out of your control.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Starting a business may seem hard at first; however, there are so much rewards in being your own boss. I would have to say having a community that supports you build a solid relationship with other vendor and clients. Always look for ways to grow your business that benefit others.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website:
https://www.kanvas.ca/
https://linktr.ee/kanvaschefs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kanvaschefs/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kanvaschefs
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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