Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tahnee Adams, co-founder of The Wienery Restaurant, located in Penticton, BC, Canada.

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

The Wienery was born out of a dedication to elevating the humble hotdog and creating one that not only tasted good but was good for you too. After sourcing local and sustainable ingredients, The Wienery food truck launched in 2017, servicing the South Okanagan and beyond. In 2021 we took the same concept and expanded it into a brick and mortar location on the sunny shores of Skaha Lake in Penticton, BC. The Wienery serves high-quality comfort food in a fast-casual environment paired with local wine and beer.

We have a wide range of customers from locals to tourists alike. We often see families and individuals coming to visit from all over Canada as well as regulars who come to support us as often as possible. We are grateful for every single person who supports us, whether it be in person, from afar, or a simple "like" on our social media pages. They are the reason we are able to continue doing what we're doing!

Tell us about yourself

My fiancé Campbell and I have a combined 25 years in the restaurant industry with a shared passion for customer service and high-quality food. We decided to combine our efforts and create something special for ourselves and our family. We have three daughters who are our biggest motivators. From showing them that delicious food can be good for you to setting our own schedule, continuing to work for ourselves will always be a priority.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I feel the most joy and the most accomplished when we have repeat customers. When someone has had such a good experience that they come back a second, third, and fourth time. For me, that is the goal. I want every single person who comes in to have a good experience. An experience worth coming back for.

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

Opening a restaurant in the middle of a global pandemic was definitely no easy feat; however it made it all the more worth it. Besides that, I’d say work-life balance is a struggle. We’re excited about our business and all of our future plans, so it’s hard to take a day “off” of work. Whether we’re answering emails on our weekends or doing some late-night menu planning, we’re always thinking about the business.

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

  1. Market research and a business plan! - we didn't do this until our 3rd year, and it made a difference.
  2. There are resources available. Utilize them and get to know your local business community. We not only have a great working relationship with many local businesses, but we've also developed some wonderful friendships as well!
  3. Be adaptable! Business plans are meant to change and adapt to your business. What works one year might not work another. That's what the first few years are all about!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Starting and maintaining a business is not easy. However, being able to do something you love to do every day is worth the work. Practicing gratitude daily helps get through the harder days.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.thewienery.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewienerypenticton/

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.