Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cathy Ferrara, Founder of Supper Made Simple, located in Howell, MI, USA.

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

I'm a Personal Chef. Many people don't know what a Personal Chef does. A Personal Chef is different from a caterer as I don't have canned menus. My menus are custom to the clients. A Personal Chef prepares a gourmet meal for special occasions for as few as two guests. Dinner parties are my specialty. Anyone can go to a restaurant – but having an intimate gourmet dinner at home with family and friends takes entertaining to a whole other level.

So let me tell you, as a Personal Chef, 5 things I don't do:

  • I don't own a storefront.
  • I don't have "canned" menus.
  • I don't mass produce the food that I serve.
  • I don't use artificial ingredients or preservatives.
  • I don't respond to requests for service without time to prepare and plan – 2 weeks preferred. I have an event form on my website, which I encourage people to complete prior to our consultation.

It's an honor to be a part of celebrations in people's lives. I'm blessed to be doing my passion!

Tell us about yourself

My passion has been cooking since I was knee how to my Mom! Cooking lights a fire in my soul! You just know when what you are doing is what you are supposed to be doing. After leaving the corporate world, I began to do my business full time. Knowing I will be a part of a special celebration is an honor. Food is what we remember about any event. When I cook for someone, I do it as if I were cooking for my family and friends.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I've been in business since 2002. I have continued to grow my business, and I'm proud to say I have long-time clients and have made many friends along the way,

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

You have to plan for the ups and downs. The last couple of years through COVID were very challenging.

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

  1. Find something you really love to do that people need!
  2. Always remember that you are a business owner.
  3. Continue to be creative and find new ways to market what you do.
  4. Get a good tax person - a CPA.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Sometimes it takes a while to find and do what you really love. Life happens and may delay doing your dream. Don't ever give up! Find your passion and pursue it!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://suppermadesimpleby.us/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SupperMadeSimple/

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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