Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tanya Muller, owner and pastry chef of Le Gateau Bakeshop, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a bakeshop that specializes in specialty cakes, desserts, and cookies. We love creating food that can be shared during those special moments in life: weddings, birthdays, showers, graduations... We have a following for our homestyle cookies that can be found in grocery stores throughout the province. We also do a lot of work with Film and Television, which is really exciting.
Tell us about yourself
I was interested in baking from a young age. I remember my Mom creating classic desserts from the 'Joy of Cooking,' such as Baked Alaska and Floating Island. I loved how creative baking could be and, of course, the delicious reward of eating whatever we made. When I was 18 years old, I enrolled in baking school. What I love about owning a bakery is that every day is different, with new challenges and success. I love getting to meet new people all the time and creating unique desserts.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Opening the shop was very challenging and exciting, but what felt amazing was when we were able to pay back our startup loan used to do all our renovations and purchase our equipment.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Time management. You need to be incredibly organized because there is always so much to do. If you don't organize your time properly, your days will be very long.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Focus on something you are passionate about and find your niche.
- Don't quit your day job too soon. Start with a side hustle, and build up your business from there. Make sure you have enough money saved because when you do quit your day job, you might not be able to collect a paycheque right off the bat.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://legateaubakeshop.wixsite.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeGateau
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legateaubakeshop/
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.
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