Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Martha Lucius, a business strategist for the restaurant industry based in Baltimore, MD, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business is to serve restaurant founders in the US and UK. Running a restaurant can feel like a solo endeavor, not when I am helping you! I've created a system to improve the culture and vibe in your restaurant, cafe, food truck, and cocktail bar, ensuring a stronger revenue and profit.

Tell us about yourself

Opening my first cafe at 33 was a dream come true. As a child of a diplomat in Thailand, India, Tanzania, and Canada, I have experienced fine dining to street fare since I was born. Once I had the canvas of my own cafe, I was able to build a team that loved what they do while satisfying hundreds of customers daily.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment has been developing a new cocktail bar where the best version of hospitality is on display. Church Bar is working and delighting customers.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

One of the hardest obstacles in my business is helping my clients while they are doing the heavy lifting. Sometimes I want to step in and do more, but time has taught me that they will learn in their own time.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Your best marketing is done by yourself. Do not hand that over.
  2. Get your financial affairs in order. Do not run your own business if you don't understand the numbers.
  3. You're going to love running your own business. Get a coach to help you stay on track.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

When you run your own business you can't take advice from whoever chooses to serve it to you. You need to confide in one or two people you know and trust who really can nurture you to be a strong, capable owner. Call me if ever you want to hear more!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://marthalucius.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marthaluciusstrategist/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarthaLucius
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marthalucius/

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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