Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erin Schram, owner of Amaranth Bakery, located in Lancaster, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a dedicated gluten-free bakery providing customers with the best bread, rolls, cookies, and granola around. It just so happens it is all gluten-free. By being a dedicated facility, we can assure customers there will not be any cross-contamination. Our loyal customers range from health-conscious individuals who are new to this way of life to those who have been living with celiac disease for years and finally have a source for breads and baked goods.
Tell us about yourself
I have always loved food; I remember being ten years old, standing on the foul line during a basketball game, and those on the sidelines would motivate me to make the shots with an ice cream treat. I have traveled extensively, and wherever I go, I always find the most authentic and delicious food. I have been working in the food service industry since I was 15, and I can't imagine doing anything else. I find great joy and satisfaction in my career by providing a service that is greatly needed and helps people enjoy life a little more. The emails, phone calls, notes in the mail all saying how much they appreciate what we do is my greatest motivator to get up early every morning and begging the baking day while most others are still asleep.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Finally getting to a point in my career where I am home evenings and weekends with my children. Having the time to be my daughter's basketball coach and get to every one of my son's soccer games. Playing board games with them in the evening and reading stories at bedtime. For many years my work hours were unpredictable, and I would miss lots of bedtimes and games. The bakery life has finally given me the opportunity to spend more time with my children. For that, I am so grateful.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The most challenging thing is that it never stops. I think about ways to improve, new ventures, my employee's welfare, and our products all the time. It doesn't matter where I am; the bakery is always on my mind.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your customers not just what they want but who they are names, families, occupations.
- Don't compromise your values for any reason. If you believe in sustainability, go with it. If you want to use all organic, do it. Some will tell you it might not be smart or the best option but if you believe in it, stick to it.
- Value your employees give them a work-life balance that will help them succeed. Don't ask them to do anything you are not willing to do.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.amaranthbakery.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmaranthBakeryCafe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amaranth_bakery/
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.