Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kathleen Enterline, co-owner of The Grateful Table, located in Washington, DC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Grateful Table is a personal chef service offering prepared meals made right in our clients' homes allowing clients to eat healthy meals while spending less time in the kitchen. Our clients range from busy young professionals to time-stretched families, retired individuals, and those with an illness or special dietary needs.
Tell us about yourself
I decided to start my own business when I was working a fulfilling yet time-consuming job in the nonprofit sector, and I wanted something more flexible while starting a family. I have always loved cooking and found it hard to eat healthy meals with a busy life and wanted to help others do so. I enjoy seeing a fridge packed with food during the day and seeing my clients' faces when they see it for the first time. Most importantly, seeing how much my meals help my clients during life's stresses and hardships is why I love what I do.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishments have been having a consistent business for the last eight years and knowing how much my clients enjoy the food and share their experience with others, bringing in more business. I am also proud we were able to adjust the business during the pandemic switching to delivery to keep our clients fed during such hard times.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come from being a business owner is being flexible and adjusting to changes and challenges that come with running your own business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Continue to market your business even during busy times, as your client base can change overnight.
- Word of mouth is very valuable. If your clients love your work, they will share it with others.
- Find and professional association or some type of group in your field to join. Learning from others and sharing best practices is extremely helpful. You can also get more referrals from other entrepreneurs when they aren't available for a job.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thegratefultable.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGratefulTable/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.