Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Terrance Smith, owner of Smith Spot BBQ, located in Dallas, TX, USA.

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

Smith Spot BBQ is a concession trailer business specializing in smoked meats, a variety of sammiches, off-menu items (i.e., nachos, tacos, baked potatoes, mac and cheese), and your traditional barbecue meals. We cater to a diverse group of people and events. When you grub with Smith Spot BBQ you are considered family. Our mission is to provide quality and consistent food that parallels our friendly customer service.

Tell us about yourself

I started cooking in the courtyard of Hubble Hall at Texas A&M Commerce University. That's where I developed my passion for cooking. I bartered meats and other foods for toiletries and simple necessities. After graduation, I attended several events to enhance my cooking skills and gain experience and exposure. I'm currently a food vendor at the Dallas Farmers Market, the leading tourist attraction in the DFW area.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a business owner, I have accomplished several of my goals. I achieved a few goals: transitioning from the mortgage industry to cooking full time and purchasing a concession trailer. My greatest accomplishment is following my passion which allows me to work alongside my family during day-to-day operations.

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

The hardest thing about being a business owner is obtaining peace of mind. You are consistently thinking! I'm awake at 2:00 AM, pondering how I can make a more enjoyable experience for my customers. Should I sell turkey legs today? Do they want baked potatoes? Maybe, I should introduce that new item I've been pondering? Oh yea, don't forget the ice. And also reading and responding to emails and social media. These are a few things consistently playing out in my mind as an entrepreneur. Sometimes, I must force myself to be present in daily interactions because I'm always thinking about the next move for Smith Spot BBQ.

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

A few tips for anyone longing to become a business owner are researching, predicting the future, being passionate, and outworking the competition.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

You can find Smith Spot BBQ at the Dallas Farmers Market on Sundays (11:00 am-5:00 pm). Fridays at Scoop and Buns (6:00pm-11:00pm). We are available for catering events during the week. Feel free to review our handles and contact information below to book your next event. "Who wants some meat?"

Dallas Farmers Market
920 South Harwood
Dallas, Texas 75201

Scoop and Buns
507 W Walnut Street
Garland, Texas 75040

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.smithspotbbq.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmithSpotBBQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smithspotbbq/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/smithspotbbq

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.