Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karina Cooper, Owner of La Dolcezza Bakery Cafe, located in Charlotte, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
La Dolcezza Bakery Cafe is a bakery that offers: pastries, cakes, sandwiches, juices, and coffee from different cultures. We navigate our business through the framework of diversity and inclusion. We believe in community, growth, education, and engagement.
With our international focus, people from many cultures can visit us and find something that reminds them of their families. We're not just a bakery cafe, we are an establishment that helps our customers create memories and feel right at home.
Tell us about yourself
As a little girl in the Dominican Republic, I grew up close to a bakery. I was drawn to the smell of fresh pastries baking every day. Although I appreciated the aroma, I was really drawn to the smiles on people's as they ate their pastries. From that day forward, I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to impact people's lives by giving them moments of joy through my baking. I am so proud of my journey. I started with humble beginnings in the kitchen of my house and worked my dream the whole way to my own brick-and-mortar location.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been my determination and consistency to never quit. My journey has not been easy, but I've made it so far. I believe that all things are possible with God.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest things about being a business owner are the long hours and the commitment to the highest level of customer service possible. Managing all aspects of the business at once while still focusing on the quality of our products.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Focus on what you really want and align your actions to it.
- Believe in yourself regardless of what it looks like.
- Be consistent.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kccreations28
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladolcezzabakerycafe/
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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