Dine With Chef K - Kinnina Royal
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kinnina Royal, Founder of Dine With Chef K., located in Washington, DC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I have a Private Chef business that serves the Greater Washington, D.C. area. My customers are people who love to entertain and want to bring a fine dining experience into their homes. Whether it is just to have a good meal for themselves or a larger gathering of 80 people.
Tell us about yourself
I've been cooking all my life; I grew up at the kitchen table, helping my grandparents cook and watching my mother bake. I stumbled upon this career, I wanted to do something I was passionate about, and cooking is something that I love. During the pandemic, my cousin asked if I could lead a team-building cooking class for her company. I readily agreed, although I had no idea what I was doing. So I worked long hours trying to figure out how to run this class and make it as professional as possible. That was the beginning, and from that one class, more opportunities have come, and my business was born.
My family motivates me; I want to make my family proud of what I accomplished, so I get up every day with that goal in mind. I know that I am building my legacy. This business is my heart and soul, and I want it to flourish, so I nurture it and pray that it will grow into something that surpasses my wildest dreams.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
That I am still in business, could I say that? It's just that being an entrepreneur is hard, much harder than people realize. You're always on the clock; you have to be the talent, accountant, marketing expert, H.R., and much more. It can get overwhelming, so being here one year after quitting my stable 9-5, I'm proud to still be in business.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Keeping up with social media. Not being a social media person is not an option anymore. That is a lesson that I am still learning. You have to keep up with the times and post, post, post! Learning how to manage running my day-to-day business and implementing a social media schedule has been the biggest challenge for me.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Social Media, everything is content. Take pictures and record videos; get in the habit now.
- Don't be afraid to try something new; growth happens outside your comfort zone.
- Learn to take time out for yourself. It can be easy to burn out; learn to unplug and do something that isn't business related just for yourself. Take the time you need to recharge so that you can give your business your all.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
At Dine With Chef K., attention to detail isn't just our focus; it's the only way we operate. Chef K. plans each menu, hand selects each ingredient, prepares each dish, and personally manages the food service at your event. Extra staffing is always done with professionals that we have vetted and worked with. Whether it's an intimate cocktail party in your home or a corporate meeting at your office. Every aspect of your boutique catering service is personally seen and executed by Chef K.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.dinewithchefk.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef.k.javon/
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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