Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Bri Larsen, founder of Whisky Business Bakery, located in Schenectady, NY.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Whisky Business Bakery is a small woman-owned business. Our customers are the people who make up our immediate community as well as those in the Capital Region.
Tell us about yourself
I've had an obsession with baking for my entire life and it's continues to grow into my passion for life. I never thought I would have my own business, life just had impeccable and here we are! The ability to create and have the option to do what I love is the motivation that keeps me going.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is wearing all of the hats and being able to sustain the business. From baking to inventory, ordering, social media, marketing, and inquiry responses. My dad does help in the every day operation of the bakery as I cannot do it all!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Knowing when you are right and having to just take a step back and listen. "the customer is always right" saying makes me cringe. They are often wrong but that's when your professionalism as the business owner perks up and you find the best way to suppress your emotions and simply communicate to your customer.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
1. Don't give up: so many challenges will come your way just stay focused on the prize.
2. Use resources: reach out to other business owners and your local Chamber of Commerce for helpful information.
3. Set goals: big or small goals, they all matter! something as simple as setting up on collaboration every month can lead to exposure.
Anything else you'd like to share?
Build relationships with other local businesses. If anyone can relate to the stress, hard work, and sometimes lack of personal time it'll be them. Having a support system is key to staying motivated for yourself AND your business!
Where can people find you and your business?
https://www.whiskybusinessbakeryny.com
https://www.instagram.com/whiskybusinessbakery_/
https://www.facebook.com/WHISKYBUSINESSBAKERYNY/
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.