Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Blair Lott, President of Rescue Dog Wines, located in Acampo, CA, USA.

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

We're Rescue Dog Wines. Our customers are adults over the age of 21 who are premium wine drinkers and dog lovers who support rescue dog organizations.

Tell us about yourself

The business started as a hobby. My wife Laura and I purchased a distressed vineyard in Lodi, California. Initially, we were only going to be growers and foster dogs. I came up with the idea of a wine brand called Rescue Dog Wines, but Laura would only agree to that if we dedicated 50% of our profits to animal rescue organizations. The business took off due to customer interest. Fulfilling our mission to help save animal lives motivates me to do what I do each day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

It's helping to save animal lives. However, I'd also like to mention that our 2021 Chardonnay received a near-perfect 99-point, Double Gold, Best of Class award from the California State Fair wine competition.

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

For me, it's managing inventory: too much and you have resources tied up in inventory; too little of a vital SKU, and you leave money on the table.

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

  1. It's a cliché, but follow your passion and make a quality product or service you believe in. If you go into business only to make money, it will be difficult to find motivation in the long term.
  2. Stay true to your mission. Focus on what your company does best.
  3. Stay in tune with your customers or clients. Your customers are your "bosses"—they allow you to do what you want to do.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://rescuedogwines.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rescuedogwines
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rescuedogwines/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rescuedogwines
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rescuedogwines/

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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