Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Francesca Pittaluga, Founder of Ciao Pappy, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Ciao Pappy is a celebration of Italian heritage and heirloom recipes blending premium quality with essential convenience for the modern family.
Tell us about yourself
I created the line of premium marinara with flavors inspired by my Italian roots from the Italian Riviera and home base in Los Angeles. Influenced by the coastal lifestyle, our sauces focus on health, a connection to nature, and access to fresh ingredients, and bring the old world to today's family.
Knowing that I am doing something that establishes a legacy for our family, sharing products that we are passionate about, and creating connections among communities really inspires me. The food industry is a completely new world, and the opportunity to learn something new each and every day is incredibly motivating.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Starting the business! Anyone who's done it before knows that the hardest part is taking the leap, getting started, and buckling in for the ride. We get to celebrate little accomplishments every day, whether it's opening a new store or overcoming a setback, but really taking risks is something any business owner can feel really happy about.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I think it's natural for business owners to put a lot of pressure on themselves to succeed, so the fear of failure is very real at moments. Things don't happen unless you make them, so it can easily feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. It's very important to stay positive and clear-headed and surround yourself with people who support you.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Just start! Don't try to over-prepare or overthink it. You will learn most things along the way.
- Be patient. Things will take longer and be more expensive than you anticipated, but trust yourself that you will figure it out and make it happen.
- Surround yourself with support, both people who know you personally but also people who've been where you want to go.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ciaopappy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ciaopappy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ciaopappy/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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