Lakeside Shawarma
Tell us about your business. What is your product, what service do you provide?
We are a family-owned Shawarma restaurant offering fresh and affordable food
Who are your clients?
Everyone!
How was the idea for your business conceived? What made you think the business would be a success? (What initial research, planning, etc. was carried out? What were some of your original goals and objectives?)
I am of Lebanese descent, and Carleton place was lacking authentic Lebanese food that was not just delicious, but affordable. I never imagined we would have the much success today, just doing what I love!
What challenges have you met and overcome in the first years of business? (For example, financing, access to start-up information, personal time commitment, labour market, product or equipment supply.)
The beginning was a little bit of a challenge because I didn’t want to just serve any food, I wanted to know what the people of CP liked. After a few menu changes, I think I’ve got it figured out! I’ve had so much support by my amazing customers
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs in business?
Love what you do, believe in yourself and believe in your product/s, be kind, be generous, and just go for it!
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Chasin’ Turkeys
Tell us about your business. What is your product, what service do you provide?
We are a bowling alley – we host leagues, birthday parties, private events, and offer a room rental for business meetings/seminars
Who are your clients?
Our clients come from all over and range in ages from 2-100. Our oldest bowler in one of our leagues is 96, and the youngest birthday party we have held was for a child turning 2.
How was the idea for your business conceived? What made you think the business would be a success? (What initial research, planning, etc. was carried out? What were some of your original goals and objectives?)
Visions Bowling Centre existed for many years. We held our sons birthday party here 2 years ago and saw major potential – and an opportunity for revive a long standing business; offering the community a source of entertainment. We knew that many people within the community relied on the bowling alley – from long standing leagues, to affordable birthday options and our day programs for organizations such as Lanark Community Social Services. We have so many wonderful businesses and restaurants in Carleton Place – we consider our facility an opportunity to compliment an evening out with friends or family. Shop local, Eat local, Play local. Since licensing the lanes, and doing some major renovations over the past year we are seeing many people book reservations before or after and evening out in one of our many amazing restaurants. We also wanted an opportunity for community outreach.
What challenges have you met and overcome in the first years of business? (For example, financing, access to start-up information, personal time commitment, labour market, product or equipment supply.)
This is an interesting question, as many people who are close to us see the past year as a major challenge – we have had such a great time with it we do not see it that way. It has been a lot of work – and a huge commitment both from a time perspective, as well as emotional and financial one – but the people we have come to know and love have made us look at it as an adventure, rather than a challenge in the negative sense; as the word “challenge often carries a negative connotation – but to an entrepreneur that is not the case. For the first 4 months my husband maintained his full time job while I worked for him during the day, and schedules my meetings in the evening. He would come here directly after work and did not have one day off for over a year – but he did it without complaint and I know he would do it again, because he found what he loves, and when you love what you do it does not seem like work. Purchasing the building and the business and not drawing a salary clearly put financial burden on our family – but sometimes you have to take a risk to see a reward, and the support from this community and the growth we have seen give us such energy and drive that we know it will all be worth it. If you asked my children what the challenges were – it would have been not seeing daddy much the first year, as this has been a sacrifice that does not stop at us. Our children have been such champs and have helped where they could, while understanding the time commitment running a business involves. When you have an entrepreneurial spirit the “challenges” are all part of the adventure.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs in business?
If there is one major lesson we have learned in the first year it is that to acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses from day one. Do not try to save money or fear relinquishing some control to outside professionals. Hire people to manage/take care of the aspects of the business that you are not as comfortable/knowledgable in so that your energy can focus on your strengths which will inevitably allow the business to grow at a faster rate than trying to take it on all yourself. We have, in the past few months, started to out source certain things that have taken so much off our plate and allowed us to once again focus on the aspects of the business that we are strong in. Because of this, we have not only taken a huge mental load off, we have also increased efficiency and productivity. We have already shared this advice with people – and will continue to do so.
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Carousel
“A Shabby Chic Children’s Boutique” which offers unique locally made products & gifts, as well as everything you need from Toys, Organic skin care products, Clothing & Footwear by your favorite brands such as Melissa & Doug, Kamik, Stonz, Calikids, Eco Chic, Little Buck & more! We also offer a large selection of Children’s & Maternity consignment. Carousel is truly a one-stop-shop for parents & tots!
Our customers are range from newborn babies to grandparents. We welcome all ages and have something for everyone.
It all started out by selling clothing from my mailbox and a strong passion and dream of owning my own store. My determination and passion, along with my love for kids and helping people, it just made sense to offer Carleton Place a much needed Children’s boutique. With the overwhelming support from my family, friends & customers, Carousel has proven to be a destination stop for all your children’s needs and gifts.
Just like an other small business, we had our challenges. Financially it was a struggle for my family, we gave up a lot and invested our last cent, living paycheck to paycheck some weeks. Countless hours ordering products, renovating store space and endless tagging, kept me away from my family, which was hard on my kids. Everything I have accomplished is because of my supportive husband & family. Without them, this wouldn’t have been possible. In the end all the hard work, sleepless nights, headaches and a lot of coffee, paid off! My family is my rock and I want them to see and know their mommy is a determined mompreneur who does it all for them. There has definitely been a few hiccups along the way, but I always kept my positive outlook and smile 🙂
Always do what you love, work hard, be passionate and always keep your smile! If you love what you do it wont ever feel like work!
The Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel is your perfect space for weddings, special events, parties, or a romantic overnight stay in beautifully appointed rooms, with 5 star service and gourmet cuisine prepared by our accomplished executive chef.
Our clients are a varied group of individuals staying with us for a variety of celebrations and occasions.
Stay focused, be patient, stick to your knitting. Don’t settle for less. Fight for your vision.