Let me tell you this story of love and business…
A retired attorney named Cora moved to the beautiful village of Boquete, in Panama, Central America. After years of running a successful law practice, this entrepreneur was looking for something “fun” to do in retirement.
As we were discussing the needs/interests of her community her business idea was born. Like most good ideas, it was a combination of passion and creativity. You see, Cora has always been a Gourmet. She’s eaten at the finest restaurants, studied at the Cordon Bleu and loves to host dinner parties. Because watching the Food Network in Panama is impossible, she wanted to share her interest and bring the best cuisine to her expat friends.
As we sat down to write her business plan we modified several business models and added her passion – food. Simply put, the business is as organized online in a blog format. Cora promotes gourmet food opportunities in the surrounding area. Writing the blog and sharing culinary experiences started to generate profits from ad space and paid promotions with Foodbuzz.com.
The second ingredient in her business plan is a Guest Chef Cooking Class. Cora loved her experience at the Cordon Bleu in Paris and recreates it in Boquete. Hands on cooking classes have become a must-go event for expat friends.
The third ingredient is “Boquete Gourmet” products, such as aprons and potholders. She has written a cookbook and is in the process of bottling sauces and jams for an extended product line.
Another ingredient is Gourmet Events. An Underground Dining event with special invitations, secret locations and guest chef’s keeps generating profits. Overnight “Fine Dining” field trips are fun and profitable (imagine 20 friends on a culinary adventure bus).
Mixing proven business models and having several products are standards in any business plan. The first year saw rapid growth and profit for Cora. Keeping the momentum going is easy because it’s a business based on her passion.
As a business woman, Cora knows that the true value is replicating her idea. She is putting together a franchise package and will be seeking other Gourmet Expats around the globe. Why not have a “Singapore Gourmet” or the “Bali Gourmet”? The business is running smoothly and profits are increasing. Taking it to the next level, is the next ingredient!
If you want to turn your passion into a business, let me know and I’ll be glad to help with your business plan.
That is a thing I must do more research into, appreciate the publish.