Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Derek Amaya, founder and owner of The Cave Bar & Lounge, located in Columbus, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Cave Bar & Lounge is an upscale cocktail bar and music venue offering sophisticated South American-inspired small plates with a Spanish twist. We also offer signature cocktails, wine, and live music entertainment. During the week, we attract a mature crowd looking to relax and enjoy a good cocktail or a glass of wine. On the weekend, we open our dance floor, and we have a diverse group from young professionals to a much older crowd looking for a fun night out to dance and have a good time.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Derek Amaya, AKA DJ Cale. I have risen in popularity for my music mix and unique skill, keeping the crowd energized and entertained for the past 20 years. I’m originally from Queens, New York. I moved to Columbus in 2001. I got established in the entertainment industry as Founder/Owner of Amaya Productions in 2004.
I have served the Latino community in Columbus with marketing, promotions, audio, visual, and DJ services. My talent has led me to collaborate with heavyweight artists such as Daddy Yankee, De La Guetto, Extreme, Farruko, Prince Royce, Fuego, NickyJam, Jon Secada, Alex Sensation, Chris Jeday, Lunay, and DJ Kaos. I became the main attraction as the official DJ for Festival Latino hosted by CAPA in 2011.
My motivation to continue in the entertainment industry is my heartfelt sense of Latin culture and passion for music. I love bringing a diverse group of people through music, food, and culture.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is staying humble. Being able to maintain and elevate my name after all these years has been challenging. I feel fortunate and blessed to open my own establishment and continue entertaining and serving the community in Columbus.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things as a business owner is believing in yourself. But mostly making others believe in you. I have always kept my faith and had a clear vision as to where I’m going and where I want to be. Being clear-minded and kind has opened doors and hearts throughout my career.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Trust the process.
- Believe in yourself.
- Be consistent.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to share my gratitude to everyone involved in any way during my career. Everyone is part of my success, and I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t because of all of you. It takes a village!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://the-cave-bar-lounge-columbus.company.site/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecavebarlounge/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.cave.bar.columbus/
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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