From passion to profit

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This article was published 01/09/2023 (1118 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In the heart of Brandon, some entrepreneurs have been carving their own paths from passion to profit, transforming their hobbies into successful businesses that have left a mark on the local community.

Among these entrepreneurs is Carolyn’s Floral Designs founder Carolyn Krueger. Her journey into the world of floral design started in 1977 when she took a part-time job at a local flower shop, observing designers create exquisite arrangements. The allure of turning blooms into art was irresistible, and she pursued her passion by enrolling in a short course during the summer after high school.

“The basics of floral design came from that short course, and from there, it’s just experience and taking different classes,” she said.

With a creative flair and a determination to make her mark, Krueger’s passion continued to grow. In 2010, she realized her dream by establishing Carolyn’s Floral Designs, a venture that has thrived in the years since.

While her journey has been marked by dedication and enthusiasm, the path wasn’t without its challenges.

“The first three years were particularly tough as we worked to establish the business. However, the commitment and tenacity paid off, and the acquisition of Foster’s Floral Fashions added another layer to our success story. We just started to grow,” Krueger said. “And now we’re very busy.”

Krueger acknowledged the challenges of working with perishable products. Precision in ordering and careful management are essential in a business where unused inventory leads to lost revenue. Yet, her passion for flowers and the joy they bring to people’s lives continues to fuel her dedication.

Looking ahead, she envisions a continued role in the floral business.

“I don’t see myself being out of this floral business for a long time,” she mused. Even as retirement beckons, her creative touch and impact on people through her work remain irresistible.

Having embraced his passion for technology from a young age, IntriTech Digital Marketing chief executive officer Emelio Brown nurtured a fascination that eventually led him to study computer science at Brandon University. After graduating, he faced a pivotal choice: pursuing a traditional job or carving his path in the digital world.

Choosing the latter, Brown founded IntriTech Digital Marketing in 2017 before his partner, Tapiwanashe Magwati from Zimbabwe, joined him a year later. According to Brown, the company’s growth has been impressive, with a trajectory that aligned seamlessly with the digital boom.

Brown’s venture was timely and well-positioned to address the increasing demand for online marketing solutions, especially when the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

“The pandemic changed the status of our business from a trial stage to a successful business. Then, we saw the upsurge of the need for businesses to go online. So we got really busy real fast. And we’re still expanding. We saw over 100 per cent in revenue growth after the pandemic,” he told the Sun.

Reflecting on the challenges of the industry, Brown emphasized the need for businesses to adapt to the changing landscape of digital marketing.

“Five years ago is way different,” he noted. “The emergence of various marketing elements like SEO, social media marketing, and digital advertisements has transformed the field. Our company serves as a growth and technology partner, working alongside businesses to harness the power of digital marketing while navigating the evolving complexities.”

As IntriTech grows, Brown and his team have encountered challenges related to the scarcity of specialized talent.

“Labor shortage is a big issue in our industry right now,” he acknowledged. To address this, “We have tapped into an international talent pool, leveraging remote contract workers to support their operations.”

Another entrepreneur, Olatoye Olaosebikan, started his journey as a solution to a common problem — travelling long distances to access specific groceries. As co-founder of Trinity Meat & Food Place, Olaosebikan embarked on a mission to provide Brandon residents with a diverse range of groceries, particularly specializing in European and African products in August 2022.

The passion behind Trinity Meat & Food Place developed from a desire to eliminate the need for customers to travel to other cities for their grocery needs. The store not only offers a variety of meats but has expanded to include different foodstuffs, catering to a diverse clientele.

However, Olaosebikan acknowledged the challenges the business is facing which include the lack of a frozen warehouse in Brandon. This necessitates renting space in Winnipeg, resulting in additional logistics and costs.

“I hope for government support to address these challenges, particularly in the form of affordable interest rates and improved infrastructure,” he said.

As for the future, Olaosebikan envisions a family legacy.

“That would be every man’s dream — to retire on time,” he shared. “With my children showing an interest in the business, my aspirations extend beyond a personal journey, paving the way for a family-driven entrepreneurial venture.”

Royal Fork Foods and TacoTime co-founder Alpesh Patel has faced unique challenges in the downtown area where Royal Fork is situated.

“Despite the vibrancy of the business district, issues like drug-related concerns have posed obstacles to business growth and community engagement,” he said.

Patel’s journey has been marked by a passion for culinary entrepreneurship. Operating an Indian restaurant since 2016, he is driven by a deep love for the business that allows him to exercise his creativity and connect with customers. The challenges in downtown Brandon have not deterred Patel’s dedication to his restaurant, and he continues to navigate the landscape with an eye toward innovation and growth.

Looking forward, Patel contemplates the future of his ventures.

“I hope for the businesses’ success to allow for the expansion of the Indian restaurant concept. There is the possibility of transitioning away from downtown to a more promising location, one that aligns with my passion and business objectives,” he told the Sun.

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

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