Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Steph Shafer, Owner of Bella Sophia Chocolates, located in Huntington Beach, CA, USA.

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

We are a family-owned chocolate boutique; we handcraft truffles and hand-painted bonbons. Since we are a resort town, our customers are travelers and locals.

Tell us about yourself

I love Art and Chocolate; I've spent many years painting on canvas. One day, I decided to paint on chocolates, creating artful things people could enjoy. My passion for creating new colors and new flavors is second nature; I love the conversations that come from it, and seeing my customer's faces light up when they walk into the boutique, makes me want to keep creating.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would have to say opening my first retail place to show off my craft and having it be a huge success.

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

The long hours it takes to create a successful business, you often give up dinners out with friends, party's even holidays. But for the true artisan, we often give these up willingly because our passion is what drives us to be the best in a competitive world.

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

I would say just do it; waiting around for the right time is a waste of time.

  1. Spend time learning and perfecting your skills.
  2. Organize your time efficiently.
  3. Look for the people in your craft who are doing better than you and surround yourself with them. Never stop learning.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.bellasophiachocolates.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steph.shafer.1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellasophiachocolates/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bellasophiachoc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-shafer-8ba952176/

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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