Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ricky Webster, Chef & Founder of Rind And Wheat, located in Spokane, WA, USA.

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

We are an artisan bakery and specialty cheese shop w/ a small selection of worldly wines and gourmet foods. Our customers are those who crave European-style pastries and cheese (think continental breakfast).

Tell us about yourself

I wanted to bring my passion and experience for bread and pastries to the Inland Pacific Northwest region. It was lacking in cheese and pastry offerings, and I thought it perfect to combine these two loves into one shop. After all, great cheese deserves excellent bread.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The ability to employ and build a staff. Aiding the local economy and building a little family in my business.

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

Managing costs and business levels. It's tough to stay on top of production and staffing demands, especially in this economy.

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

  1. Know your market and give the people a mix of what they want and what inspires you.
  2. Work with your staff to build trust and respect, and then give them the freedom to make mistakes and hold them accountable.
  3. Do your homework on location. I am closing down one location at this point because it is just not safe. We've been robbed, and it's not a great location for foot traffic.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.rindandwheat.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rindandwheat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rindandwheat/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ricky_webster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricky-webster-2004a34a/

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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