Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jonathan Cunningham, Co-Founder of Round Table Coffee, located in Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a specialty coffee shop in Pittsburgh, PA. We serve coffee lovers from all walks of life, but our neighborhood is close to several universities, so we welcome a lot of students every day.
Tell us about yourself
I fell in love with coffee in college and found myself diving deeper into the fascinating world of specialty coffee every year. Slowly a dream to own a coffee shop emerged, and eventually, I felt that I had a unique perspective to offer the industry and the community. I have a lot of plans and dreams around the business, but ultimately we want to cultivate a space where people feel welcomed and can share life together. I am still humbled every time I look around the shop and see people connecting face-to-face over a cup of coffee. As we thought about how we could reflect this community sentiment in our name, we settled on Round Table. The table is where we gather, break bread, tell stories, and connect with people. A round table, in particular, conveys the dignity and respect that we believe are due to everyone who enters our doors, from our staff to our guests, we love you all, and you're welcome any time. And when the table is full, pull up a chair because there's always room for one more.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As simple as it sounds, just taking the plunge into business ownership is my biggest accomplishment. And to top it off, we've been open for more than a year, so for my first business, I feel pretty good about that! So many people, myself included, sit on ideas and dream about the "what ifs," but rarely take the step to start something new. And I really couldn't have opened the shop without the support of my wife, friends, and family. And we wouldn't have made it this far without incredible staff and guests who keep us going every day.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
It can be hard to be grounded sometimes. When it comes to business, I'm the most optimistic person I know, and surely nothing can go wrong. In reality, there are bumps in the road, many of which you can prepare for if you are willing to look ahead and if you're also willing to face the realities about all of the outcomes that you may face, not just those that result in success. Having a balanced outlook or someone who can balance you is invaluable for good decision-making.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make a plan but be flexible.
- Find good people that you want to work with.
- Do the things that excite you.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.roundtablecoffeeco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoundTableCoffeeCompany
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roundtablecoffeeco/
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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