Everything Local - Karen Cooper
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karen Cooper, Farmer's Market Manager located in Winsor, NS, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I work with local businesses on their administration needs cost-effectively and efficiently. My current work is focused on a local food hub facility and a local farmers' market.
Tell us about yourself
I started the business because I needed flexibility in my work schedule to support my mom. What I love about what I do is the relationships among the community I work in and its focus on a grassroots problem - keeping a local food economy strong and resilient.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Making it to the five-year mark! I have had lots of support along the way. I started the SEB program with one vision. About three years ago, I found that the initial business was not working. I was able to switch to 100% administration work with the clients finding me rather than me working to find clients.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Never turning off. My business is very low overhead, so I do not worry about rent and supply chains. My worries are more about making time to continue with education and training to ensure I can provide the best service for my clients.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Know what you want and know what you don't want. Saying yes to a project outside your lane will not usually end well. Understand why you are doing what you are doing - what is your motivation (mine is not money, but the power to spend time as I want to, so I will not work 60 hours a week to chase an income goal). Know your tribe - surround yourself with people who get you both in business and as a human being. That means surrounding myself with passionate supporters of local food and holistic thinkers.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
You won't find my business on social media directly. My clients are my stories, so I limit my social media. Not every company is driven by an online presence, and I hope there remains room for everyone in real life and online.
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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