Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Terra Simons-Gloria, owner of Noonie's Homemade Fudge, located in Lincoln, NE, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hiya! I'm Terra, owner and product maker at Noonie's Homemade Fudge. We specialize in various flavors of handmade, gourmet fudge as well as other yummy desserts.
Tell us about yourself
Our fudge is based on my grandmother's recipe. It was with her passing and the sudden passing of my stepmom in 2020 that NHF was created. Cooking fudge was a way to stay busy while staying close to them, and we're blessed to have grown since then.
Growing up, there were only two flavors: Chocolate and Chocolate English Walnut. Occasionally there was also Chocolate with Black Walnuts. We now offer over 40 flavors of fudge, using the same recipe as well as other desserts and cookies.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Many people don't know this, but my health took a hit a few months after we opened. I was hospitalized for a week, had surgery, and took a year to recover. I didn't think we would make it to our first holiday season, and at times, we seriously considered closing. We took it one day at a time, and things kinda fell into place. It took a lot of work and adaptability, but we're very blessed to be where we are today.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Finding a work/life balance. I'm a business owner, but I'm a mom to four first.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- It's ok to set work hours. You do not have to answer every email, text, or post at 1 am.
- Starting a business does not have to be expensive. You just have to start. I literally made a local post one day and offered free samples of 2 flavors of fudge.
- There will be ups and downs, but all that matters is you just keep going.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jotform.com/app/222748490534158
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noonieshomemadefudge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noonieshomemadefudge/
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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