Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kimberly Cannon, owner of Nothin' But Wings, located in Columbia, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Nothin' But Wings is a contemporary take-out restaurant. We serve classic and specialty wings along with other traditional cuisines, including Salads, Burgers, Philly Cheesesteaks, Shrimp Quesadillas, and more. We take pride in making sure our food is seasoned and prepared to perfection so the customer will have a delectable eating experience. Our customer base is EVERYONE!!!!!
Tell us about yourself
I worked in the mental health field for twenty years. I come from a family of entrepreneurs, which included my mother owning a barbecue restaurant. I found myself being the happiest when I was at the restaurant. Making sure the quality and presentation of the food was "perfect" was my main goal. I knew then that being a part of operating a restaurant was my passion. My sole desire and motivation are to ensure that customers have the best eating experience possible. I love it when customers call back and/or make positive comments on social media about their experience at Nothin' But Wings. That lets me know the hard work we put in is worth every minute.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment to date is successfully opening the restaurant during the COVID-19 pandemic. We opened in August 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. We had to make sure we were in compliance with DHEC regulatory guidelines and the new guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus. It was challenging, but we were steadfast. Another accomplishment is opening a restaurant in the community in which I grew up. The community has been so supportive, and we appreciate the support so much.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that comes along with being a business owner is making sure that the product is worth the customer's hard-earned money every single time. Finding and keeping good employees is also very difficult. I make sure to tell the employees to thank you and how much they are appreciated every day. Finally, trying to find and maintain operating capital. Small businesses sometimes need outside sources to help stay afloat, especially in the first five years of operation.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Three tips I would give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today. Number one, make sure there is a business plan in place. It can be simple or detailed; just have a plan. You can always solicit help. Along with the business plan, make sure you have a vision and mission for the business. Number two, the person looking to start or run a company must have passion for what they are doing. My thought is if I didn't get paid to do the job, would I still do it. Be patient, stay focused and surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision. Lastly, the potential business owner must have a solid foundation in financial literacy. It is important to understand this concept because you are dealing with revenue and capital one hundred percent of the time. When starting a business, you have to know how to spend and invest in your business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to mention my team. My Partner Tyrone White and Operations Manager Kenneth Robinson. I would like to thank them for believing in my vision and mission. Nothin' But Wings would not be possible without the dedicated staff who work tirelessly every day. Carolyn Hall, Deborah Woodard, Alexander Dennis, William Drayton, Charles Cannon, Jayla Cannon, Brian Suber, Rosalind Lorick, Tatrina White, and Kelley Alston. Thank You.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.nothinbutwings.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WingBoss5911/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nothinbutwingss/
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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