Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tonweya Sherman, manager of Awake Cafe Coffee and Conversation, located in Detroit, MI, USA.

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

Awake Cafe coffee and conversation started in March 2019. We are all about relationships, from our coffee to the products we sell! We are focused on building connections from our coffee to our pastries and teas. Building relationships with organizations focused on helping people gives you the chance to help make changes in others' lives.

Our R 13:11 coffee comes from the lush hills of San Luis, Santa Barbara, Honduras. Freddy Rapalo is a third-generation farmer focused on helping his local people. He pays a livable wage so that the workers do not have to leave their families! He is dedicated to using natural methods which benefit the trees and surrounding areas.

Tell us about yourself

Our motto is you are more than just a customer! People are why we do what we do! conversations and connections! We get excited when we see people connecting with others in a warm, safe environment.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Seeing others grow, seeing someone come into the shop having a rough day, and leaving encouraged, inspired, or motivated! If we can do that, I feel we have been successful!

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

Learning and changing... Knowing what people want and what sells and being willing to change our methods or menus as we need to!

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

  1. Ask questions from the owners down to the person working the floor ask for suggestions and ideas on what works! Then the ideas that are relevant to your situation!
  2. Be willing to say you don't know! be willing to back up and change where change is needed! Don't hold on to something just because it was your idea. If it does not work, it does not work!
  3. Be patient and work hard!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Evangelistic Faith Missions started us with the goal of giving you the opportunity to improve lives locally and internationally! We really love the people that come in; that is why we are here!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://awakedetroit.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWAKECafeDetroit/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakedetroit/

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.