Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joanne Richter, co-founder of The Second Wedge Brewing Co., located in Uxbridge, Ontario, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We're a much-loved brewery in the heart of Uxbridge (the Trail Capital of Canada!) is a hub for community, music, and art. Named after the rolling landscape of the Oak Ridges Moraine, our beers are inspired by local trails and small-town lore.
Tell us about yourself
Every time I think about why we (my husband Rob and I) started planning a brewery, I come up with a different but equally true answer. In reality, there are a million reasons why it made sense for us. The big ones were: a love of beer - enjoying it, brewing it, understanding the science behind it, celebrating the culture of it - a love for our community, the need to shape our own future, and the vision of an incredible business that could bring all these things together.
I had a very strong feeling one day that we should look at what it would take to open a brewery, and then it all started to coalesce into a path forward. It took us three years of research, planning, and fundraising to pull it all together. I wake up every day thinking about what needs to get done. I'm super motivated to tackle my day because it's like feeding your child or walking your dog - you just wouldn't do otherwise.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Creating a brand that people associate with creativity and community, and making beer that brings them joy. And knowing that our whole team can feel this and is proud of what we've built.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Dealing with the ups and downs - you've got to make like a duck and let it roll off. Reading contracts - a necessary evil. Paperwork. Long hours in front of a computer screen.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Write a full business plan and ask yourself all the hard questions BEFORE you commit yourself. Hire people carefully and cultivate a strong, diverse team. Engage with your community, and if you can, give back.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Small business is fun, challenging, and often terrifying. The rewards are often not financial. Best of luck, and enjoy the ride!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://thesecondwedge.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesecondwedge/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesecondwedge/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Thesecondwedge
Location: https://g.page/thesecondwedge?share
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.