Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kristin Harris, Founder of Chef Frugal LLC, located in Monroe, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a personal chef specializing in catering, dinner parties, private dinners, special events, and meal planning. I service the great people of Charlotte, NC, and all surrounding areas locally, but I also travel!
Tell us about yourself
I have a large family, and one thing that is a given with any size family is we've all got to eat! I grew up in the kitchen, and cooking became a passion of mine that I would eventually want to share with the world. I work full-time as a phone support supervisor during the day, but I wanted more. I started exploring how I might be able to turn my passion, something I absolutely loved to do, into something lucrative. My desire and goal are to have my personal chef business pay my bills and provide me with enough leftovers not to need a 9-to-5. I put in the work I do every day because I know that is what is required to get there.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Every advancement is a mile-marker on my path to success as a personal chef. When I initially started, I did not have a commercial kitchen space, so I was limited to cooking in clients' homes or at event locations only. Recently, I acquired a commercial kitchen space in the University area of Charlotte, which will afford me the possibility of many more opportunities.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I'd have to say starting out; the hardest thing is managing all the different parts that come with running a business. There's the service/cooking aspect, the finances, the content creation, the making appointments, the consultations, and the marketing. At first, it's just you; you're a one-man show. Knowing what parts need what is an acquired skill. Once I can make enough money to afford a staff, these will be the first people I'm looking to hire!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't wait, do it now! Your idea isn't perfect, and maybe you don't have it all planned out. Get help writing a business plan, and start working toward your dream now.
- Don't be afraid to fail. Failure breeds refinement. It can only make you better if you learn from it.
- At the same time, don't expect overnight success. Most people quit their 9-to-5 looking for freedom of time, but owning a business is an around-the-clock venture. You never stop working for your dream.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I'm really grateful to be here. If you are in the Charlotte area, I hope you will check me out!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://cheffrugal.us/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chef.frugal
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef.frugal/
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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