Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Raenel Stelly, Founder and Director of Rae’s Cuisine and Agri-Core, located in Nashville, TN, USA.

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

I am a private chef, and I specialize in catering and events, from weddings to baby showers, to engagements, and also speaking engagements focused on Agricultural/Growing your own garden and Brand Segments on other food companies products. I have catered for Amazon, HCA, the Frist Ctr., Gilda's Club, and Olivia Olive Oil. I also do private and group catering classes and welcome clients to take me on their vacations to eliminate their food concerns.

Tell us about yourself

I am originally from the Bay Area, graduated from Pittsburg High School in Pittsburg, CA, and from Oakland, California.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Although I have had many accomplishments, my biggest one has been getting into the Culinary WORLD cup in Luxembourg, Europe, which is 11/25/2022; it's on my grandma's birthday and the day after her favorite holiday, Thanksgiving.

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

False promises. I've been promised restaurants, chef residencies, and jobs, and most of the time, they would rather steal my great ideas or find a way to cut me out of the opportunity when they realize its value.

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

  1. Know your customer base, and if you don't know it, target the customers you want to BE your base.
  2. Take some business classes or go to your local Entrepreneurship center if you can't identify certain business acumen, learn automation processes and marketing tips.
  3. Be about your business! Respond to customers, regularly engage with them, and cater to their needs.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I will come and do a garden installation in your home or business, Agri-Core, where I am a director; our focus is to mitigate food insecurity and provide our community with quality food access.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website:
https://www.chefraecooks.com/
https://www.agri-core.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chefraecooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefraecooks/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/chefraecooks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chefraecooks/

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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