Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jill Hatch, owner of Sugarcane, located in Honolulu, HI, USA.

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

Sugarcane specializes in beautiful and unique locally made products. Over 90% of our inventory is locally sourced through Hawai'i-owned businesses and artists. We also carry a small selection of vintage items to do our part in reducing, reusing, and recycling. Supporting our little shop means you are not only supporting a local woman-owned small business but also other small businesses through the islands. Our products are different than anything you will find anywhere else in Hawai'i.

Tell us about yourself

I have owned Sugarcane now for nearly 12 years. I absolutely love what I do because of the people that I get to meet every day, the vendors that have become close friends, and the close friendships that I have created with my neighbors in the Kaimuki neighborhood.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am extremely proud of the fact that we have been open now for 12 years. We have withstood the pandemic, watched the neighborhood change, and I have held onto most of my staff from the beginning. I think it says a lot about us as a team. I am also proud to watch my two daughters get more and more involved with the business throughout the years. My oldest daughter, Kennedy, is now pretty much running the shop and does an incredible job.

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

I think the hardest thing about owning a small business is that it is all-consuming. You never "turn it off." You are constantly thinking of ways to better the business, market yourself, get more involved in community events, and stay relevant.

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

  1. Get involved with your neighborhood and community as much as possible.
  2. Don't be afraid to try new things and take a leap of faith.
  3. Make sure that your business is something that you are passionate about.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://sugarcaneshophawaii.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sugarcanehawaii/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugarcanehawaii/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-hatch-522063136/

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.