Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Natasha Hovyadinova, Owner of Truffles & Creams Chocolatier, located in Zionsville, IN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a chocolate shop that specializes in truffles and other chocolate-based sweets. The shop is located in Zionsville, IN. My main customers are primarily local, but I also sell my products online and ship across the country.
Tell us about yourself
I have a teaching degree but never worked as a teacher. Cooking and baking were always my passion, and I spent some time working as a cook assistant. My passion for chocolate led me to where I am now. For the last twenty-plus years, my husband and I would start each day with coffee and a piece of chocolate. If there is no good chocolate in the house, the day is ruined. The coffee is not the same. When I heard of the closure of a local chocolate shop four years ago, I decided to jump on this opportunity, bought it, and started my own business. The rest is history.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I continue to be amazed by the fact that something I love doing may also bring joy to many more people who love my chocolates. And then every positive review of my business on Etsy, Google, or Yelp brings that joy back to me. It's a full circle. Bringing more positivity to this world!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The chocolate business is very seasonal. Figuring out how to deal with very slow seasons has been hard sometimes, emotionally and financially.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't overthink. Just start and adjust the course as needed.
- Enjoy what you do and bring that joy to other people.
- Don't lose control of your cash flow. Staying profitable is key!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.trufflesandcreams.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trufflesandcreams
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trufflesandcreams/
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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