Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lisa Johnston, owner of Seasidenova Dulse, located in Victoria Beach, NS, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is harvesting and packaging dulse(algae or seaweed).
Tell us about yourself
I started harvesting when I was very young to make extra money in the summer to buy new clothes for school. I have harvested and sold to other buyers throughout my life until 3.5 years ago. At that time, we lost a good friend and buyer, and I decided to strike out on my own. Try to make the life I wanted and not have to work for a boss.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest accomplishment would be staying afloat over these past few years and not losing my business when covid struck. I love working on the shore and having time to do the things I want to do.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Everyone says, just start. That's true, you must start, but you have to keep going and do ALL the things. Not just 9 to 5 and go home. You need to be there for the orders and the harvesting, the packing, and the paperwork, and sometimes it means long days. The best part is that you can pick your hours and fit the rest of your life in when you want.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Ask for help when you need it. You may think you can do it all, but it's much easier with help.
- Get rid of the voice in your head that is telling you that you can't. You can. And you will as long as you try.
- Do your research. There are lots of resources to help you get started and to help you build. Take advantage of all you can.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I love what I do, and that makes it less work and more fun.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://seasidenovadulse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myseaweedaddiction/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my_seaweed_addiction/
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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