Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kerrie Hansler, founder, and CEO of Sweet Reads Box, located in Peterborough, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Sweet Reads Box is a Canadian monthly subscription box delivering a custom-curated reading experience delivered to your door. Sweet Reads provides everything you need to settle into Me Time. A fantastic read, a delicious beverage, and a gourmet sweet plus additional items to enhance your experience.
Sweet Reads values supporting small Canadian businesses and making choices that support the environment and provide jobs for Canadians. We absolutely love finding new Canadian brands and makers to feature in our boxes.
Tell us about yourself
As an educator and lifelong reader, I have always wanted to subscribe to a book subscription. I looked and looked for one that didn't just send a box and items but a subscription that tied the items to the novel. When I couldn't find it, I pitched the idea of starting this company to my husband on a family road trip. We talked about logistics, put in some money, and created Sweet Reads Box. Even with many boxes curated and shipped, it is always exciting to choose a new novel and get ready to curate the reader's experience. Combining something I love with my values and making it work as a business is a dream come true.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Not just building a business but building a network and community.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Making hard decisions day after day. There is always a problem to solve or a new strategy to explore.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You do not have the time you think you have; use time wisely.
- Be kind and fair.
- Collaborate and find businesses and business owners that align with your values and work with them.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://sweetreadsbox.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweetReadsBox
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetreadsbox/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SweetReadsBox
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.