Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amy Alward, CEO of baristas + bites, located in Portland, ME, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our business is baristas + bites, Home of Love Kupcakes. We specialize in vegan and gluten-free cookies and whoopie pies. Our products can be shipped to your doorstep through www.goldbelly.com/baristas-bites.
Tell us about yourself
My mom was a huge influence on my development as a baker and an entrepreneur. After college, I managed a small cafe in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, called The Stockpot. The owners were great chefs, however, they had no interest in baking desserts and were spending an exorbitant amount of money to bring in desserts from a neighboring bakery. My mom dropped off a couple of French Silk Pies one day, and voila, a star was born. She continued baking for them for more than 25 years up until her passing. In later years, after I had left the restaurant business, my mom would take the month of March off, and I would fill in for her while working my corporate job. This started the bakery bug for me and eventually led to my own brand.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Wow… that’s a tough one. The biggest success for me is having a happy customer.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Growing the business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Read all you can about it and continue to read about it even when you think you know everything.
- Stay curious.
- Stay humble.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.baristasandbites.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/baristasandbites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baristasandbites/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/baristas_bites
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyalward/
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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