Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Denise Aguirre, owner of The Point Park, located in San Antonio, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are in the business of providing the best San Antonio has to offer in food truck cuisine, craft beer, locally roasted coffee, exceptional service, and great vibes. Our customers come from all walks of life. They are passionate about supporting local businesses. They are young, old, raising families, single, foodies, craft beer enthusiasts, coffee addicts, neighbors, travelers, and friends.
Tell us about yourself
I, along with my husband and business partner, launched the concept in 2010. We were both working full-time at a very well-known financial service company. I was in my 15th year at a career I was no longer passionate about. I was headed into my 40s and needed to make a change.
I knew I would own a bar one day, so much so that at a one-on-one, when an executive director asked me the predictable "Where do you see yourself in 5 years?" question, I immediately blurted out, "Behind my bar. I'm going to own a bar one day." It took about three years after that statement to begin that journey.
In 2010, my motivation was to become my own boss and create my own destiny and legacy in an industry that was untapped. There was nothing like my concept in town, outdoor beer garden, food trucks, art, family, and neighborhood hangout.
We launched in 2012, and each year since, my motivation changes. It ranges from being able to make money to investing in and helping others (We helped launch three restaurants owned by food truckers) or just as simple as continuing our journey to create a space that is collaborative and a backdrop in someone's story.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
So much has happened in 10 years, but as simple as this sounds, being able to survive and thrive after two covid shutdowns in 2020 is our biggest accomplishment. We were two weeks away from closing for good in 2020. I was at peace with it. We knew that we had made it to year eight, which was a huge milestone for this industry. Being able to overcome, adapt and "pivot" (2020 buzzword) kept us going.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Each industry is different, but for us, it's getting out of my head, the self-doubt, questioning our goals. Am I doing this right? Is this what people want?
Social media has been a blessing and a curse. It helps us reach people, but we always have to be on top of the next big thing. What brings people in the door? What makes them stay?
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Again, this is industry-specific. When people come to me and say they want to own a food truck, bar, or park, I ask them...
Why? If it's to be rich, well, good luck. You can make money, but you will have to make sacrifices. If it's to have more free time, expect to be working weekends, nights, and some holidays. Your business will consume all of your free time. It never ends. You don't get to clock out.
What's your thing? What makes you special? The great thing about San Antonio is that it's still small enough to make a huge impact. In other words, if you have a killer concept and execution, you will no doubt make a name for yourself.
Get active in networking and social media. Some of the most successful people in my industry are so good at this. I am constantly inspired and in awe of this.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would just like to share that when you support our business, our little food park, bar, and coffeehouse in the middle of a neighborhood on the outskirts of San Antonio, off the beaten path. You are supporting multiple business owners at one time. The Point is not just ours. It belongs to our food truck vendors, musicians, coffee roasters, craft beer partners, local artists and makers, and so many more.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://parkatthepoint.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepointpark
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepointpark/
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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