Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erin DeMarines, CEO of E-Fit Foods, Inc., located in Tampa, FL, USA.

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

We are creators of PLANT POWERED Vegan snacks. 3BAR energy bar is our first product; imagine organic dark chocolate & peanut butter, almond butter, dark chocolate, and coconut! Plant-Powered Pop is being launched in July 2022! Our customers are kids, athletes, busy families, and you, yes, you - the person who wants to eat more sustainable, more plant-based, healthier, but doesn't want to sacrifice flavor!

Tell us about yourself

I never intended to start a plant-based snack company, but my triathlon coach inspired me to give up dairy for 3 days to clear my sinus issues, and the difference was mind-blowing. I started studying nutrition and eventually became a certified Sports Nutritional Consultant, Plant-Based Health Coach, and Personal Trainer! When one of my clients asked me to change my cookie recipe to something healthier, the light bulb went on. I could make these cookies not only healthier but balanced and dairy-free! I soon made them every night, selling them out of my apartment and in gyms! I am motivated to help every person I come in contact with to get healthier in some way. Exercise is only part of that equation, an important part, but eating is way more important. That is my mission, purpose, and dream.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

This year I got my 3BAR energy bars into LifeTime Fitness nationwide and also on Walmart.com, so those are two big accomplishments!

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

Wearing so many hats and being pulled in so many directions. It is hard to power down and just be. There is always something I have to do 24 hours a day. As a certified female business owner, funding seems to be challenging. I have been in business for over 20 years, and finding the money to grow is still a struggle.

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

Ask yourself if what you want to do is viable? How many others are doing the same thing and making a living there? How did they get there? Find out. Do you have money to invest in your business, the marketing, the supply, and most importantly, your time? Your time is money.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Follow your passion, but do it within your reach. And once you make that decision, never look back, never doubt yourself, and keep believing in yourself! Your family and friends may not, but what matters is that you believe in you.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://efitfoods.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/efitfoods
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/efitfoods/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tri3bar
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erindemarines1/

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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