Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ellyn Dixon, Owner of Wildflower Caramels, located in San Antonio, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Wildflower Caramels. We are a woman-owned, family-run company with a mission to create unique, incredibly tasty treats and small delicious surprises that keep you coming back for more! From high-quality, sustainable sourcing of all of our ingredients to simple, low-waste packaging, we strive for, in both life and business, a model that leaves a minimal footprint on our planet and much love for all!
Tell us about yourself
I have a background in psychology and social work, but when I started having kids, this line of work was no longer sustainable for me. I dabbled with a few different part-time jobs and made caramel as gifts for family and friends for years before I considered selling them. After a couple of holidays with growing demand for special orders, we set up our first farmers market in 2016. The business has mostly grown organically from there. I never intended to start a business until the opportunity was essentially thrown into my lap through the high demand and support of the beautiful humans that we get to call our customers.
My biggest motivator is my children. Not only do I want to provide for them and teach them about hard work and integrity, but the intentional sourcing and quality of our ingredients also ensure that we are doing our part to care for the planet and the lives that inhabit it.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is starting the business that sustains our family and learning from scratch all of the intricacies of running it on my own.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Hands down, the balance of work and life. The lines are often blurred.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Ask for help from professionals.
- Never underestimate your ability to learn about something that you may not be an expert in.
- The quality of your product matters more than anything but the presentation matters almost as much.
- Listen to yourself! Sorry, couldn’t narrow it down to just 3 ;)
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.wildflowersa.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WILDFLOWER.CARAMELS/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildflowercaramelco/
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.
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