Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brandy Brozny, co-owner of Square 1 Coffee, located in Edmonton, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My husband and I own Square 1 Coffee. Our customers are people who are looking to take a break and love excellent coffee. Our business centers on fostering belonging by creating community, striving for excellence, and owning our presence in our community by acting with integrity and generosity.
Tell us about yourself
Jonathon and I decided to start a cafe because we realized there was a need in our community. We love coffee, and we love people. Therefore we decided to put the two together to create something everyone could enjoy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a business owner, my biggest accomplishment is seeing so many people's lives made better through connection. We love giving our customers, staff, and whole family space to come together and connect. We often see first dates, best friends reading a book together, fathers and daughters chatting over a latte, neighbors meeting by chance and discussing the latest news. Beyond this, we see our staff forming strong relationships with people they might never have had a chance to meet otherwise.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most difficult aspects of being a business owner is managing people. There are so many eyes on everything you do, and people often look to you to see what you are going to do. It can be a lot of pressure, and we don't take that lightly.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find a good support system. You will need it.
- Be patient. Everything takes 3x as long as you will expect.
- Put people first. If your main priority is to make money, you will probably fail.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Even though it is way harder than you can imagine, it is also extremely rewarding. If you are passionate about what you do, you can go further than people think you will.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.square1coffee.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/square1coffee/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/square1coffee/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.