Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Steven Lash, owner of Blue Duck Eats, LLC., located in Canton, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I bring an elevated dining experience to people's private homes and vacation rentals in the Atlanta and Blue Ridge, Georgia area. I specialize in American cuisine and comfort goods with an upscale flair.
Tell us about yourself
I spent 15 years as a chef working in the restaurant business and honing my skills but took a nearly 20-year hiatus to pursue a different career path in tech when my kids were born. The vision for Blue Duck has been rattling around in my brain for nearly 20 years, and cooking has always been my true passion. I exited the tech world in 2019 and, looking for something to do. I posted on Facebook that I would cook a dinner party for anyone interested in an elevated in-home experience. A friend of mine managed vacation rentals and asked me if I'd be interested in cooking for their guests. I gave it a try and completely fell in love with cooking all over again. The rest is history.
To feed someone a meal that they truly enjoy, to watch their reaction when a beautiful plate is placed in front of them, and to hear their response when taking the first bite... it doesn't get any better than that. It's truly an honor to give someone that experience.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I began my business at the end of 2019 and in the early days of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Not the best time to start a food business; however, perseverance, flexibility, and some dumb luck (maybe) paid off. By the August of 2020, I was able to support myself and my family full-time off the business.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The biggest challenge for me is that as a one-person operation, I'm on the hook for all of it. Because there are so many hats to wear, it's vital to stay organized, and I personally find that to be challenging.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take the leap and commit! Half-ass won't cut it, so if you're going to do it, go all in!
- Stay true to yourself and your heart. Remember why you are doing it and stay passionate.
- Embrace the suck. Starting a business can be anything but glamorous, but the not-so-fun parts have to be done... so do them.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://blueduckeats.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDuckEats
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueduckeats/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenelash/
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.