It takes a village
Once upon a time I was a runner. We don't need to get into the details as to why that's taken a backseat in my life but have you ever been apart of the running community?! They might be the best cheerleaders around. The camaraderie and "don't give up-ness" that the running community has is what the world needs a bit more of. Starting Hattie's has been a lot like joining the running community. The support has been incredible! From the help I've received from my new friends at the Boone EDC and Indiana Small Business Development Center when it came to writing my business plan, and developing my financial forecast (huge shout out to Gigi Nicholas at The Gifted Word for her guidance and editing also) I feel so well connected now. Both organizations were a perfect place to begin the process of starting a business, and they've done a remarkable job of guiding me to where I need to go.
Claire Collett, who is the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Manager at the Boone EDC pointed me in the direction of Mainvest, and look at us now! $15,300 in investments thanks to all of you! So exciting. This platform has so much to offer to people like me who are just trying to get started, and I'm so glad they took on Hattie's.
The Whitestown Planning Department worked hard with me to get through the application process of applying for a special use variance (more on that in future updates!) and the people of our little town rallied behind this business in a way I'll never forget. Grateful to call this place my home.
Finally, there are three businesses I want to highlight that are coming alongside Hattie's to get us up and running.
My landlord, Mario Claretto- who I've introduced you to in previous updates- is also going to be my coffee roaster alongside his dad, Brad. The Daily Grind is their roasting company and I'm so excited to have them providing the coffee for Hattie's! I LOVE their coffee and I know our customers will also.
Alt Construction is owned and operated by a close family friend of ours- Seth Alt. With his expertise, connections, and talents Hattie's is in good hands. I am grateful for his company and their employees, and cannot wait to see the space transformed from a residential home to a thriving place of business.
Jennie Thomas Design will be providing us with our interior design services and we are so excited to see the floor plan she designs for Hattie's and will be sure to share it here soon!
I've been inspired by these men and women, and many more. It's not an exaggeration to say at this point I've poured blood, sweat, and tears into Hattie's, and they've come alongside at different parts of the race and cheered me on to keep going.
