Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nancy Bruns, co-founder of J.Q.Dickinson Salt-Works, located in Charleston, WV, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works produces a solar-evaporated, hand-harvested, mineral-rich salt from the ancient Iapetus Ocean, deep under the Appalachian Mountains. I am a 7th generation salt maker. My ancestors settled in the Kanawha Valley in 1813 and started making salt in 1817. Their business continued until 1945. My brother and I revived the business in 2013 on the same land. We make a variety of salt flavors, as well as a line of caramel sauces and spice blends. Our customers are people who love to cook and value high-quality ingredients.
Tell us about yourself
I spent the first part of my career in the food industry as a chef. I worked in many different aspects of the field, from institutional food service to owning a restaurant, gourmet retail shop, and catering business. Being deeply involved in the industry allowed me to learn the importance of quality ingredients.
After learning about my family's salt-making history, I felt the business needed to be revived. Instead of taking an industrial approach, we took a sustainable approach to make high-quality culinary salt. There are very few artisan salt makers in the US. I saw an opportunity to supply restaurants and boutique retailers with our high-quality products.
Working in the same place where my ancestors toiled for so many years to build a strong business is empowering to me. I love coming to work and building my business.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I was nominated by EY for the entrepreneur of the year award and made it to the final round. Even though I didn't win, it was a great honor to be in the same company with such great businesses. It was very validating.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Managing people is always hard. Everyone has a different set of needs. I want to provide a good workplace where people can thrive, but my expectations aren't realistic for all employees. I have to remember that not everyone is like me!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- No matter how much work you put into your business plan, the actual business is going to be different.
- Ask for help when you need it. Using a Small Business Development Center is a great resource.
- Stick to your vision.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jqdsalt.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jqdsalt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jqdsalt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jqdsalt
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-bruns-10355416/
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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