Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Roni Fell, owner of The Cookie Company, located in Omaha, NE, USA.

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

The Cookie Company has been in business in Omaha for 37 years! We don't just sell the best cookies around; we sell memories, nostalgia, tradition, and happiness. Our customers are children, adults, and senior citizens...larger businesses such as First National Bank of Omaha and Berkshire Hathaway, and smaller local businesses that use our cookies for advertising their companies and/or thank their great customers! We are blessed with truly the kindest customers!

Tell us about yourself

My name is Roni Fell. I was born and raised in the Philippines. I started selling candies when I was seven years old to my friends and classmates, always dreaming of owning a business of my own. While in college, I started dreaming of owning my own business in a mall. When an opportunity arose to purchase a successful company located in a mall in Omaha, I jumped at the chance! I am motivated each day by the smiling faces that come to visit to buy a cookie or popcorn or drink:) The conversations I have daily with our customers include life events, next trips, job promotions, etc., making our customers feel connected. I always tell my employees to deliver excellent customer service and a positive attitude. We don't just sell cookies; we sell an experience.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment has to be surviving the pandemic. I acquired the business just prior to the beginning of the pandemic. Before the pandemic, there were over 100 years of experience working for the business. Once we had to furlough our workers, many of those employees chose to retire, and we had to build a staff from scratch with only one employee that chose to commit to us and the business. The fact that it's been almost three years now, we have a great team, and sales are continuing to increase back to and beyond pre-pandemic levels excites me!

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

I'd have to say it's finding people who share the same values and commitment to service that I have and convincing them to join our team. Business is always easier when you're surrounded by great people, and one of the most difficult things is finding those great people:)

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

  1. You don't have to know the "how." You just have to know the "what."
  2. Acknowledge your strengths as an entrepreneur; you can always improve your weaknesses.
  3. Find joy in everything that you do. If you are going to dedicate your life to something - make sure it's something that brings you joy! As a leader, you control the atmosphere...keep it fun!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The value of a commodity is whatever a person is willing to pay. It's so important that as an entrepreneur, you get paid for what you do. Make sure the price you're charging for your products and services covers your ability to live a comfortable life. You are a servant to your customers and should be compensated for that.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://shopthecookieco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OmahaCookieCompany
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecookiecompany/

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.