Building a Self-Managing Food Business: How Wylder Space Achieved Profitability and Freedom

Ever felt like your passion is holding you hostage? In 2019, I was a chef consumed by my own dream—overworked, overwhelmed, and watching my love for sustainable, farm-to-table dining turn into relentless fatigue. But by 2024, Wylder Space transformed into a thriving, self-managing business that not only reignited my passion but also made us profitable. Here's how building a self-managing food business changed everything.

The Turning Point: From Burnout to Breakthrough

Running Wylder Space had become a juggling act of epic proportions. Every decision, every task, every problem landed squarely on my plate. While we gained recognition for our commitment to organic, locally sourced cuisine, behind the scenes, I was drowning in responsibilities. The business depended entirely on me, leaving no room for creativity or personal life.

I knew that to sustain and grow Wylder Space, I had to change how we operated. The solution? Building a self-managing food business machine.

Implementing Systems for Automation

The first step was to streamline our operations through automation:

Inventory Management: We adopted software that tracked inventory in real-time, reducing waste and ensuring we always had fresh ingredients.
Scheduling and Bookings: Automated systems handled client inquiries, event bookings, and staff scheduling, freeing up countless hours each week.
Financial Tracking: Implementing accounting software provided clear insights into our cash flow, expenses, and profitability.

Result: Automation reduced errors, saved time, and allowed the team to focus on delivering exceptional experiences rather than getting bogged down in administrative tasks.

Empowering a Reliable Team

Next, I focused on building a team that could operate independently:

Training Programs: We developed comprehensive training that aligned with our values and standards.
Delegation of Roles: Key responsibilities were assigned to team members who showed leadership potential.
Open Communication: Establishing regular meetings and feedback loops ensured everyone was on the same page.

Result: Trusting my team not only alleviated my workload but also fostered a sense of ownership among staff, leading to higher job satisfaction and better client experiences.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

To stabilize and increase profitability, we expanded beyond traditional catering:

Private Chef Experiences: Offering personalized culinary events for retreats and private gatherings.
Educational Courses: Launching the Nourishing Traditions Course to share knowledge on sustainable living and traditional cooking methods.
Digital Products: Creating the Mason Jar Series eBook and video tutorials for a global audience.

Result: Diversification opened new markets and revenue channels, reducing reliance on any single source of income.

Reaping the Rewards

By 2024, Wylder Space was no longer a one-woman show but a robust, self-sufficient enterprise:

Increased Profitability: Our revenues have grown significantly from 2019 to the present due to efficient operations and a team of people who all hold a similar mission and values.
Personal Freedom: I regained my time, allowing me to focus on innovation and reconnect with why I started Wylder Space.
Enhanced Reputation: Clients noticed the seamless service and continued to spread the word, strengthening our brand.

Inspiring Other Food Entrepreneurs

This journey illuminated a path that many chefs and food entrepreneurs desperately seek. I realized that my experience could serve as a roadmap for others trapped in the cycle of overwork and underprofit.

Why I’m Passionate About Helping Others:

Understanding the Struggle: I've been in the trenches and know the unique challenges of the food industry.
Proven Strategies: The systems and approaches that worked for Wylder Space can be tailored to fit other businesses.
Community Building: Sharing knowledge fosters a stronger, more sustainable food community overall.

Your Journey Starts Now

If you're a food entrepreneur feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated, know that there's a way to transform your business and reclaim your life.

Action Steps:

Assess Your Operations: Identify areas where automation can save you time and reduce stress.
Build Your Team: Invest in training and trust your staff with greater responsibilities.
Expand Thoughtfully: Look for opportunities to diversify your offerings in ways that align with your passion.

Let's Connect:

I invite you to learn more about how you can apply these principles to your own business. Visit The Entrepreneurial Spirit to discover resources, courses, and coaching opportunities designed to help you build a self-managing, profitable food business.