Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Maureen Sharaf-McCooey, Founder of Planted Kitchens, located in Chesterbrook, PA, USA.

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

Planted Kitchens Catering and Personal Chef.
We offered catering and delivered meals that promote a healthier way of eating by addressing food intolerances and allergies and considering meals that have high nutrient density.

Tell us about yourself

I am the owner of Planted Kitchens and have spent most of my career preparing and serving food to my customers. From years as a caterer and cook to running cafes and restaurants, food service is in my blood. I developed an interest in food on a deeper level as a wellness tool when I began studying nutrition. I decided that I no longer wanted to feed people. I wanted to nourish them. I began cooking for clients, taking into account dietary restrictions, their health concerns, and the nutrient density of the foods I was preparing. Suddenly my career was on a whole new path! Now, when I serve them a meal, I am helping them be the healthiest version of themself!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Inspiring people to eat better and live happier life!

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

Staying true to your brand while being able to pivot and adjust to meet the needs of your customers.

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

  1. Plan- Write a business plan so that you don't lose your way and keep working towards your goals.
  2. Listen- Make sure you understand the needs of your customers and can meet their expectations even as those needs might change and evolve.
  3. Make sure you are having fun! That's the point, right?!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://plantedkitchens.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopplantedkitchens
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantedkitchens4life/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureen-sharaf/


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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