8 minute read
The Rise of the Entrepreneur
by firedupmag
Entrepreneurship is the current buzzword in today’s culture. Oftentimes, a plethora of online ads appear on social media where people offer “how to” programs on how they became overnight successes and business moguls. Without a doubt, entrepreneurship requires more than what meets the eye. Just as working a regular “9 to 5” is a full responsibility, entrepreneurship, in most cases, enlists an even greater level of dedication.
What does it mean to start your own business? What are the benefits of being your own boss?
Most say that owning your own business is a way to have the freedom to create your own schedule. People nowadays often desire to work for themselves to create a greater work-life balance, thus creating a way to spend more time with their families. A recent statistic revealed that in 2022, the number of small businesses owners in the United States reached 33.2 million, making up 99-percent of the nation’s businesses.1 Becoming an entrepreneur is a journey that involves learning who you are, what your strengths and passions are, and how you can turn them into a profitable venture. It is inspiring to witness someone doing what they love, and that’s exactly what Brandon Emmitt is accomplishing. As the owner of Emmitt’s Catering, Brandon’s journey as a business owner is remarkable. It has garnered him several recognitions as he continues to expand his reach with his delectable cuisines. Emmitt’s Catering offers private chef services, catering, and cooking classes and is
continuing to expand as he is being sought after across the United States.
Like most entrepreneurs, Brandon had a desire to be successful and to do something he was passionate about. His love for cooking began as a child, watching his father cook for their family. This moment in his life sparked his interest in the culinary arts. At age 23, he decided he wanted to pursue a culinary career.
Brandon also credits his upbringing in church as the foundation of who he is and how far he has come in life and business. He says being taught faith at a young age made an impact on how he tackles life’s circumstances. Brandon knows without doubt that “all things are possible to those who believe.”
Brandon Emmitt started his culinary education in 2008 at Remington College. However, it was a challenge because he dealt with some major life changes. But, Brandon didn’t give up. He persevered through it all and today, his culinary expertise has garnered him features in publications, podcasts, and other media outlets.
Brandon was greatly influenced by his culinary school instructor, Robert Bifulco. Mr. Bifulco took Brandon under his tutelage and inspired him to overcome personal setbacks and challenges as he pursued his culinary education. “My mother and father divorced when I was 18 years old. So, my dad wasn’t around to guide me. I remember falling on my knees asking God to be my dad and to show me the way,” shared Brandon. “God led me to cross paths with Robert Bifulco while attending college. He stayed on me and kept me grounded. Our relationship was more like father and son. He took me under his wing and taught me skill and personal development.”
Brandon’s response was simple when asked what advice he would offer someone who desires to take the leap into entrepreneurship. “Keep God first. Have a vision. Work hard. Believe in yourself.” What’s next for Emmitt’s Catering? Brandon has a great vision for the future of his business. He plans to take his cuisines nationwide and do food events throughout the United States to spread love through his delicious food.
Brandon Emmitt gives God all the credit in his success, “God is my CEO. I am the president.”
To learn more about Brandon Emmitt and Emmitt’s Catering, check out his website at www. emmittscatering.com.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ ChefBrandonEmmitt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ emmittscatering/
1. Take some time to consider what your passions are and what you enjoy doing that you can convert into a sustainable business. (Example: photography, event planning, graphic design, etc.) 2. Conduct market research in your field of interest to determine if your business idea can be profitable within your specific niche. 3. Create a to-do-list of what you
need to start your business. 4. (Example: business registration, licensing, business planning, etc.) 5. Choose your business structure. (Example: Sole proprietorship,
Limited liability partnership, limited liability company, S corporation, corporation) 6. Write a business plan. This is a necessity to apply for business funding or financing. 7. Consider funding sources. This could be personal investment into your business or other type of business financing, such as crowdfunding, angel investing, or bank financing.
For more information about business and entrepreneurship, check out the U.S. Small Business Administration at www.sba.gov or SCORE at www.score.org.
Debt Free
By Stephanie Wyatt
CEDRIC & CIERRA WILKERSON
In 2019, my husband and I were shopping for our first home when we realized things would be more affordable if we reduced our debt. We remembered the testimony of two of our friends which sparked an interest for us to consider Dave Ramsey’s financial wellness program. By decreasing our debt, saving up a nice down payment on a new home would be possible. We wrote down our vision and pinned it to our bathroom wall and scratched off each debt item as we paid it off. By the end of 2020, we had paid off a total of $61,355.71! With sacrifice and determination, in 13 months we were able to meet our goal. God truly ordered our steps.
What lessons did you learn on your journey? What resources can you share with others wanting to pursue a debt free journey or gain financial literacy?
Paying off a large debt slowly can seem redundant, but consistency is key. We would look at the balance after throwing a nice chunk of cash on it, and it still seemed like a very far-fetched goal. Over time, the balance kept dwindling and became closer and closer to “0”.
Also, excess spending had to stop and we had to have the determination to keep this mindset. We gave ourselves an allotment of money we could spend every pay period. The rest either went towards debt or in our savings account. This helped us to quickly pay off the debt. We followed Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace Baby Steps, which helped us out a lot. We did take our own approach and paid off debt that had the highest interest first, but everything else we did was based on the recommendations of Ramsey University.
Paying off debt is achievable, but you must have the discipline to do it. So many individuals get discouraged when the debt doesn’t move quick enough, but you must remember this isn’t a sprint but a marathon. The more debt you have, the more grace you need to give yourself. You have to have a plan. Write out your debt, your goals, your budget, etc. Once you have done that, stick to it. This helped us to quickly pay off the debt.
What started you on your your path to financial wellness?
As a couple, we desire to build wealth and to own things that actually belong to us. Our desire was to also fulfill the scripture, which says owe no man anything but love. We wanted to enjoy life freely, which meant we needed to remove any unnecessary, excessive debt. The Bible says that a good man will leave a legacy to their children and that is our goal. Michael & LaKisha Walton
What lessons did you learn on your journey?
We learned to approach large and small purchases like a fork in the road by asking ourselves one question. “Is this a desire or a need?’
Additionally, we became careful of our wants because they can harm your needs. For example, you get all the stuff you want, then realize that you need money for car repairs or doctor visits, and you don’t have it. What helpful resources can you share with others who are interested in becoming debt free or becoming financially literate?
Don’t overspend. Live within your means.We didn’t use any sources, like a specific formula or method or program. We used our spiritual resources. We did read books, and different videos, followed advice from other people, but we ultimately obeyed the word of God. In everything, we put God first, including our giving. For us, giving is not just limited to money, we give our time and also help in the ministry. These are seeds we are planting and they are reaping a harvest for us. (Matthew 6:33; Malachi 3:10; Luke 6:38)
