Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rodolfo Reyes, Founder of Culinary Brigade Private Chef LLC, located in Phoenix, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Food is our business! We are a "food service solutions" company, meaning anyone who eats regularly can use our services, from meal prep to private chef services and cooking classes. Our clients include pro athletes and celebrities alike, as well as everyday clients who are looking to make food faster and more convenient for their busy schedules. We make special day celebrations even more special with tailored, in-home private chef experiences.
Tell us about yourself
I fell into food service; my parents worked in restaurants and eventually got me my first job as a dishwasher. I moved up through the ladder and eventually became an executive chef. I strive for knowledge and better ways to serve our clients; I look for more than just the exchange of money for services. I really enjoy the connections with new people and the opportunity to learn about others through my job.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Being able to serve such a wide spectrum of clients, we are about as versatile as it gets when it comes to food. One day we can be serving future NBA stars getting ready for the draft, the next, we might be celebrating an NFL wide receiver's bachelor party, and the next, we might be at an intimate and heartfelt birthday family dinner. On the flip side, we are the same people who make dinner easy for a busy family after dealing with everything life throws at them.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The fact that I don't ever have a real day off. The amount of things that have to fall into place in order for things to keep going can be very demanding and tiring.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Understand your business as a whole, from planning to finished product and everything in between. Many people think it's just about being a good cook in this particular business. You have to know how to sell, manage when to get help, take time off, and understand seasonal business and downtimes.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.culinarybrigade.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chefrreyes/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/culinarybrigadechef/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3zHhOsf
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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