Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tara Evangelist, owner of Temple of the Dog & Meow Lounge, located in Chicago, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a boutique salon offering full-service and all-natural dog grooming in Logan Square.
Tell us about yourself
My inspiration for The Temple was my black lab, Mickey. I originally had an office job working in operations at an online education company. I was laid off, and it was the best thing that could have happened to me. I had the opportunity to figure out what I wanted to do...and I wanted to have a job I could bring Mickey with, so I enrolled in a dog grooming school. Six months after graduating, I opened The Temple with Mickey by my side.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been finding the most amazing groomers and assistants in the industry. I am so fortunate to work alongside people who have a passion for dogs and grooming. ..they're insanely entertaining as well. They truly are the best and make my heart swell! I owe The Temple's success to their constant hard work and to ensure our clients leave happy.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I despise the admin and paperwork. After a long day of grooming, the last thing I want to do is respond to emails/phone calls, update our website and calendar...or anything accounting-related.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be patient and critical during the planning phase of your business...there's so much I hadn't thought about before opening that has come to light over the last 10yrs.
- Find the right people to work with...don't settle.
- Be kind to yourself and others. It's important to have a healthy work/life balance...burn-out is real no matter how great your passion is.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://templeofthedogchicago.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/templeofthedogchicago
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/templeofthedogmeowlounge/
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.