Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brownie Sims, Co-Founder of The Final Sauce, located in Richmond, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

The Final Sauce is a specialty condiment company. We make barbecue sauces, spice rubs, marinades, and vinaigrettes. Our customers are "foodies," folks from all demographics that appreciate good food, creative flavors, and unique meals enhanced by our products.

Tell us about yourself

Many years ago, my Aunt used to work for a local favorite barbecue restaurant in the Bay Area. They were known for their barbecue sauce. Ultimately my Aunt left the restaurant, and subsequently, after the owner passed, the family did not know how to duplicate the sauce. I figured out how to make the sauce but added my own special twist to it. Initially, it was only made when entertaining family and friends. After many encouragements to "bottle the sauce," I began researching the process of manufacturing my sauce. In 2013 The Final Sauce was born with one sauce. Today, we have expanded to 30 products. I am motivated daily. Every day I think of bringing a new flavor to the product line. I am motivated by our customers who are fans for life. I am motivated when I receive a picture from a customer who made something amazing with one of our products.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Our biggest accomplishment to date is we were able to sustain our business during shutdowns and COVID-19. We had the ability to pivot our business and expand our product offerings. We are still here.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is to keep your mindset and keep doing the good work.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Surround yourself with other entrepreneurs. Friends are great and needed, but in order to be a successful entrepreneur, you will need to surround yourself with others who face similar struggles, challenges, and successes. This will only enhance your growth.
  2. Invest in your business, knowledge, and growth. Sometimes, this will take using personal funds. It will require taking classes to shore up the knowledge needed to run your business as well as classes to learn how to grow/expand your business.
  3. Find an accountability partner. Work together to keep each other accountable for what is stated, the effort required to build how and where you want.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.finalsauce.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFinalSauce
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getthefinalsauce/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SauceFinal
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/florence-sims-the-final-sauce-368874239/

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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