Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tanya Lynch, Owner of Misstee, located in Ajax, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Misstee provides takeaway meals weekly. We offer an array of everyday comfort foods with bold flavour infused with a Caribbean twist, from jerk chicken and pizzas to Oxtail and ackee garlic pan breads. We have a wonderful range of customers, mainly anyone who enjoys a good Mac and cheese or spicy wings and a Caribbean flavour.
Tell us about yourself
My inspiration came from my amazing late mother, who always had a passion for cooking. I watched her in the kitchen for years and always wanted to lend a hand. I have been cooking for as long as I can remember. I love finding new flavour combinations and twists to everyday classics. It was my mother that sparked my passion for cooking and will continue to inspire me in and out of the kitchen. After becoming a mother myself, it pushed me even more, so I could show them anything is possible.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is seeing where I am today from where I started and the struggle that I had to go through. I’ve been catering for many years, but I originally launched my business during COVID; that was difficult enough dealing with everything going on in the world. At that point, I realized time is of the essence, and we need to live for today. At that point, I really started to dive in and invest in my business, and I am very happy with where I am today and cannot wait to see what else God has in store.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As satisfying as it is to work for yourself and to watch your business grow. This takes a lot of time and effort, even sacrifice, giving up personal time with your friends and family. Having your business, you will work long hours and have late nights. But I absolutely love every moment of it. I’m very grateful and blessed to have a very supportive family. I would not be where I am today without them.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Plan, plan, plan. Make sure you have a thorough business plan. Know your market and costs. Research and check out your competition and take note of what works and what doesn’t work.
- Have balance. Many people put all their energy into their business and then burn out; find a good balance for you.
- Last but not least. Don’t watch anybody else’s pace; go at your own pace and celebrate every accomplishment that you make. Do not compare your business or where you are at current with another business/business owner.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Make sure you are always having fun and do something you are truly passionate about.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.misstee.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missteelovefood/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missteelovefood/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/missteelovefood
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.