Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jonathan Welch, owner of Sissiboo Coffee Roaster Ltd., located in Bear River, Nova Scotia, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a small-batch organic and fair trade coffee roaster located in the beautiful village of Bear River, Nova Scotia. We are supported by locals as well as coffee lovers that find us online or while they are visiting NS. Our customers appreciate the value of fair trade, organic coffee.
Tell us about yourself
Coffee roasting has been an interest of mine for many years. In 2009 I took the courageous step of becoming an entrepreneur and purchased a small commercial roaster. With no previous experience, I spent the next year teaching myself the trade through many failures and many wins. I spent hours listening and watching and tasting the roasted beans as they taught me their secrets. Roasting is never dull for me, and each day is a learning experience.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I truly enjoy helping fledgling entrepreneurs start their business dreams through mentoring and sharing space with them. The success of my business has been an inspiration to other entrepreneurs, and over the past decade out area of NS has become a very vibrant food and drink destination.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The fear of failure through the risk of running a business is one that keeps many of us awake at night. I've learned many lessons through failure and value them all despite some being painfully learned. Committing to a life/work balance is so important but difficult to maintain.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be passionate about your business and put in the time to make it work.
- Don't expect immediate rewards from your labour.
- Connect with others in your line of business and, if possible, find a mentor willing to advise you.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Watch for the signs of burnout and take it seriously. Take time to reflect on where you want the business to be in the future and break your vision down into achievable steps.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://sissiboocoffee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sissiboocoffeeannapolisroyal/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sissiboocoffeeroaster/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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