Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brandon Eller, Founder of Mr. B's Meadery, located in Seattle, WA, USA.

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

Seattle's Only Meadery serves honey-based alcoholic beverages to those who are looking for something different than the average adult drink.

Tell us about yourself

I first went into mead in 2010. My drummer at the time (Tristan) gave me a bottle from his first batch. I've never been much of a drinker, and I was blown away by how different it was. So about a year later, I asked him how to make it. He just gave me the name of the recipe and said, "figure it out."

So I researched it online, got the equipment, and made my first batch in February 2011. I love constantly trying new ideas and flavor profiles. One of my biggest motivators is seeing the look on someone's face when they first try it and then expressing their newfound love for a beverage that is truly unlike any other.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Starting my business with no debt has been a huge accomplishment. I kept my day job at first until the business made enough for me to go full-time mead maker. I strive to keep my overhead and expenses low and efficient while using quality ingredients and minimalistic methods in order to focus on the best-finished product I'm capable of.

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

Taking the first step was the hardest thing to do. The uncertainty of what to do and how to do it was very stressful. Before I could even apply for the federal license, I had to rent a commercial space without knowing if the space would even be authorized. It was a huge financial burden I had to carry for almost a year before I could start making my first commercial batch of mead.

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

  1. Talk to as many others as you can who already do what you want to do.
  2. Save and budget your money very carefully while planning for the year or more ahead.
  3. Focus on the efficiency of your time and money by allowing personal time away from work. You don't want to get burnt out.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Find something you love doing. Because even if you're not financially successful, you will walk away with more knowledge of your passion and maybe have better luck your 2nd time around.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://mrbsmeadery.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrBsMeadFremont
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrbsmead.fremont/

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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