Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Eleni Woldeyes, Founder of Eleni's Kitchen, located in Hillsboro, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our mission is to provide the best and most authentic Ethiopian food products. We make packaged Ethiopian sauces that are vegan and gluten-free to help our customers create easy Ethiopian stews and stir-fries. Our first product, "The Original Kulet – Red Pepper Sauce", is the Ultimate Stew Maker. Eleni's Kitchen's "The Original Kulet – Red Pepper Sauce" is simmered onions, berbere (Ethiopian spiced red chili pepper powder), oil (olive), garlic, ginger, and other spices; it is the base for preparing gourmet lentils, beef, chicken or other types of stews. Our product evokes the traditional, open-flame style of Ethiopian cooking and is rich in exotic aromas.
Tell us about yourself
I set up my company, Eleni’s Kitchen, LLC, in order to share the unique flavors and exotic aromas of Ethiopian foods with the world. I am committed to providing Ethiopian foods made from all-natural ingredients. I wanted to see Ethiopian food products that are convenient to use in my local grocery stores.
Motivation - Helping my customers cook delicious Ethiopian food using our sauces and spices. Representing and honoring the Ethiopian women from back home who nurtures and take care of their family through their cooking.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Making Ethiopian food products accessible in many grocery stores. Teaching and cooking Ethiopian food for a non-profit organization.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Balancing time with family.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Networking.
- Having a learning mindset and,
- Not trying to do everything yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.eleniskitchen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eleniskitchen.eleniskitchen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eleniskitchen.ethiopianfood/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleni-woldeyes-373806132/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.