Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rachel Kellner, co-owner of Aigner Chocolates, located in Forest Hills, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I’m the co-owner of Aigner Chocolates with my husband, Mark Libertini. We are one of the oldest chocolate shops in NYC, manufacturing and retailing handcrafted chocolate and confections. We took over Aigner Chocolates back in 2015 after buying it from the Aigner Family, who owned and operated it for three generations. All of our chocolate is produced using antique equipment and recipes passed down through the generations. We service clients looking to make an impression, build relationships, and express appreciation with their clients and staff by offering year-round corporate gifting.
Tell us about yourself
My husband always wanted to own a chocolate shop, and I wanted to combine food and therapy. My background is as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Aigner Chocolates is a manifestation of both of our visions. We get to spread joy and hope through the magic of our chocolate. Our vision is to make the world a better place by sharing our passion for the art of chocolate making.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our proudest effort was the Rainbow Bunny Exchange. Kids were asked to draw rainbows, add a message of support, and drop them off at our shop. In exchange, they were given a free chocolate bunny pop. In two weeks, Aigner Chocolates collected over 300 drawings (!) and donated them to Elmhurst Hospital’s Helping Healers Heal program during the height of the pandemic. The hospital had the idea of creating a collage of rainbows in the shape of a rainbow. The artwork was mounted on a large wall in the hospital’s lobby to brighten the days of frontline workers in an area that was hit the hardest by the virus. It is now on permanent display in the lobby of the hospital.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I have two. Having my husband as my business partner AND the need to stay positive and stay the course with our goals despite all the unexpected challenges that arise.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Working your tush off does pay off.
- Do something you love so it won’t feel like work.
- Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://aignerchocolates.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AignerChocolates
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aignerchocolates/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-kellner-83521213a/
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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