Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shannon Jessup, Owner of Elasya B's Candy Tree LLC, located in Winston Salem, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a one-stop shop for all your indulgences, cravings, and gift-giving needs. A Gourmet Candy store with a custom apparel department. We customize over 50 flavors of candied apples, from hard candy to caramel-dipped apples.
Tell us about yourself
Our business venture started as a lesson to our then 9-year-old daughter about being self-sufficient. Instead of giving her the American Girl Doll requested, we decided to teach her about earning your way. The request was made, by our daughter, to make candied apples to share with our neighbors (for a price). After selling out a few batches...Elasya B was born.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We have expanded our line of products to include custom apparel, hand crafted cakes for all occasions and have managed to do this without going into debt. We have also expanded our operations to include 2 concessions buses serving Italian Ice and gourmet popcorn in a variety of flavors. We also offer gourmet marshmallows, cotton candy, chocolate-covered pretzels, and other hand-crafted sweet treats!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Our biggest challenge to date has been surviving the pandemic of 2020. We had to change directions and fill the mask shortage need, and that's when our custom apparel department gained its wings!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint at heart; love what you do more than the money, and never lose heart for the people you serve because they are the heart of your business. Oh, yeah, don't get one bright idea and quit your day job, success takes time, so you have to be willing to invest some!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.elasyabcandytree.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElasyaBCandyTree
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elasyabscandy/
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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