Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Thera Palmer, Owner of Pigman's Bar-B-Que, located in Kill Devil Hills, NC, USA.

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

We have a local BBQ restaurant in the Outer Banks that has been here since 1985. Our customers come from all over the globe, as the Outer Banks is a popular vacation destination. We are also very active in the community and put on various fundraisers throughout the year to help out local charities.

Tell us about yourself

This started out as a summer job that I truly loved, and then the opportunity to purchase the restaurant came about, so my college roommate and I took the plunge and purchased it! This was back in 2007, and we're still here!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Our biggest accomplishment business-wise, I would say, is winning the small business award in 2019 from the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce. Navigating the business through Covid was also quite the challenge that we took head-on. I would also say that catering to many different palates from different areas is a challenge that we enjoy meeting. Also, it is both fun and rewarding to meet new people every day and give them a great experience when they come to Pigman's!

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

I would say assembling your staff. We have been lucky to employ some really great people here throughout the years from different parts of the world, and it is fun seeing them come together as a team.

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

  1. Make sure that you love what you do, or it's not going to work.
  2. Try to maintain a positive attitude at all times..you are the one that sets the tone for everyone else.
  3. Constantly communicate with your staff and management.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Having a small business is definitely a challenge, but it is a very rewarding one. I wouldn't trade what I do for the world.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://pigman.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PigmansBBQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pigmansbbq/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pigmans-bbq/


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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.