Rethinking the Asian Food Aisle

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Wynn Austin, Founder, and CEO of Wynn's Kitchen, located in San Diego, CA, USA.

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

Wynn's Kitchen, we are on a mission to rethink the Asian food aisle. We imagine a line of Asian food items, sauces, & condiments that have simple and REAL ingredients, without all the sugar, gluten, and artificial crap. We strive to recreate your favorite Asian food products that not only taste better but are BETTER FOR YOU!

Our customers are health conscious and care about quality ingredients and what they put in their bodies. They love Asian flavors and food but want healthier options that don't have tons of sugar or gluten.

Tell us about yourself

In 2016, I embarked on a healing health journey and had to work on cleaning up my diet. I scoured the nutritional panels in the Asian aisle and discovered that all the sauces I loved had tons of sugar, gluten, and preservatives. I couldn't believe the massive void in the marketplace for Asian food products that had clean ingredients and no added sugar. With the increasing demand for Asian-inspired food, I knew she couldn't be the only one in search of a healthier option.

In my kitchen, I conjured up the very first batch of her Saté Sauce, made with all-natural, real ingredients without sugar or gluten. It became a huge hit amongst my friends. In 2019, I decided to take a leap of faith, and Wynn's Kitchen was born. I am a San Diego mom and joyful ambassador for healthy living, driven to create healthier options for Asian food lovers.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment is learning to navigate the natural food business while having no previous experience. I had to start from scratch and had to learn all facets of the industry on my own. Everything from manufacturing, distribution, and shipping to raising capital. It was completely out of my comfort zone, and I'm proud that I never gave up.

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

The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is having to do everything by yourself when you are starting out. There are no set hours and no guarantee that you'll be successful. You have to work hard to believe in yourself and your passion on a daily basis.

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

Ask for help- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Share what you are doing, and ask if they have the answers to your questions or if they know someone in your industry that may be able to help. You have to be comfortable really throwing yourself out there.
Don't wait until things are perfect: Just start where you are. The most important thing is to get started. There are plenty of excuses to wait but start and learn as you go.
Get comfortable with rejection: Don't take rejection personally. Not everyone will understand your vision from the beginning. A no today doesn't always mean that it will always be a no. Just because one person or company says no, doesn't mean everyone will. Keep moving forward.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://wynnskitchen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wynnskitchen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wynnskitchen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wynnaustin/

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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