Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christina Wood, Owner of Temple Pastries, located in Seattle, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a bakery specializing in sourdough croissants, brioche, and other pastries. Our customers value our bright, open space to relax in and the attention to detail we give our pastries and espresso.
Tell us about yourself
I am always pushing myself to learn more and perfect my skill set. I love trying new techniques, leading my team by example, and the creative process of coming up with original pastries and desserts.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Staying true to my values throughout the tough times COVID and inflation have presented. I pay above a living wage, provide health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and profit-sharing to my employees, even if it means less in my pocket because people are what makes a business work.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Handing things off to others. I love being in the kitchen working alongside my other bakers, but it leaves me less time to focus on the big picture and growing the business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find what makes your product unique/hard to replicate and lean into that.
- Understand your management style and be consistent in how you deal with people.
- Your employees don't own the business, so don't expect them to do their job their whole life as you will.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.templepastries.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/temple_pastries/
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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