Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Courtney Koga, owner of Crasian Foods Corp, located in Kelowna, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We (currently) operate as three unique dining concepts in Kelowna, BC:
The CrAsian Food Truck
Provisions Kitchen & Catering (at Kettle River Brewing)
BoxcAr Kitchen (at BNA Brewery)
Each establishment operates in collaboration with another like-minded business within the community. From events and catering to snacks at the brewery, picking up dinner for home, or grabbing a bite on the road, our food businesses cover it all.
Tell us about yourself
It's the food and the people for me - I have always loved both. Neither are constant. Both are ever-changing with given situations making each day a new adventure.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Watching the business grow and develop has, in turn, given us larger opportunities to give back to our community. Without the business, we as individuals would not be able to have the same impact to give. We can provide much more to local charities and causes near and dear to our hearts through our teams, time, and resources.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Making time to take care of yourself. After the staff, guests, spaces, books, home life, and all else are done, there's not a lot left in the pot for yourself. Determine what it is you need for yourself and prioritize it, remembering that without taking care of yourself, you can't take care of the rest. Be sure always to find a compromising balance.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- There is almost no such thing as being ready.
- Stay humble, be kind, and keep your eyes, ears, and mind open.
- Surround yourself with the right people.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Just like in life, business is full of ups and downs. Staying level-headed and grounded will get you through. Remember to look at the grand scheme of things, not each and every micro-moment.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.crasianfood.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crasianfood
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crasianfoodtruck/
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.