Wood Fired Pizza - Purple House
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kerry Coyle, owner of Purple House, located in Gananoque, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Purple House is an eclectic family-run restaurant featuring fresh local ingredients in our salads, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade desserts. Located in Gananoque, Ontario, just steps from the St. Lawrence River in the heart of the beautiful Thousand Islands. We welcome our customers to relax in our historic converted home and on our lush garden patio. Our menu changes seasonally, and we take pride in offering delicious gluten-free and vegan options.
Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in Gananoque (or Gan as the locals call it), and I’ve always had an appreciation for our tight-knit community and picturesque town. It wasn’t until I traveled extensively in my 20s and 30s that I realized what a unique place I was lucky to have been raised. My travels across the country and further afar opened my eyes to a wide variety of regional cuisines and their importance within a cultural background. After years of supporting my travels through the hospitality industry, I finally decided to put my passion for cooking and my knowledge of food service to the test and set some roots down in my hometown.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We are proud to have been awarded Entrepreneur of the Year by the Gananoque Chamber of Commerce in 2020. More importantly, I’m proud of the family vibe we have at the Purple House among our long-term staff and guests alike. We keep it real!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I would say the most challenging thing about being a business owner is achieving a work-life balance. Over the years, I have come to realize the importance of taking time away from the business, which otherwise can be all-consuming.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Follow your passion, build a support network, find your niche, and stick with it.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Gananoque is an internationally renowned destination. Here in the Thousand Islands, we have much to offer in the way of arts, culture, and recreation. Come visit us and see for yourself!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.purplehousegan.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepurplehousecafe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepurplehousegan/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.