Meet Katie Hux

We recently connected with Katie Hux and have shared our conversation below.

Katie, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?

My upbringing on a dairy farm has taught me numerous valuable life lessons and has significantly influenced my work ethic. My father delegated specific daily and evening tasks to me, primarily focusing on caring for young calves through bottle feeding and nurturing their development. Observing my father’s diligent care of our cattle herd, milking them twice daily, was a humbling experience that showcased his perseverance as a solo operator. Despite fluctuating market returns on milk and grain prices, he remained committed to his agricultural endeavors. His determination has inspired me to similarly drive my business forward, notwithstanding current economic conditions. As a sole proprietor, I derive great satisfaction in reaping the fruits of my labor and the knowledge it takes to achieve this goal.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

After retiring from county government, I discovered an unexpected passion for establishing and running my own gift shop. This dream was born as a blessing from God. I seek customer interactions and continually strive to innovate and build a loyal customer base. My shop features unique, handmade products from local artisans and doubles as a welcoming stop. As a midpoint on the 326-mile Ohio to Erie Bicycle Trail, my business caters to cyclists with a bike lounge offering restrooms, refreshments, and snacks. Visitors from across the United States have enjoyed this oasis. I delight in hearing their stories and facilitating purchases with shipping options for travelers. By supporting local artisans and providing cyclists with a rejuvenating retreat, I fulfill my desire to make a positive impact on my community.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

As an entrepreneur you need to develop ways to be successful in managing your business. You must think outside the box through marketing strategies and products or services you provide. The three areas I gain knowledge is involving community engagement, marketing a business effectively and obtaining personal relationships for customers to return and/or share their experience with others. This knowledge comes from asking oneself, “what do you want to achieve with your business” and mapping out the skills it takes to obtain that goal.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?

The number one obstacle for my business is the economy. People like to get out and explore businesses but do not necessarily spend their money due to the needs they have for daily living versus wants.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: morespace_at_yourplace
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091591082075&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits

Relive the Moment Photography-Kevin Baum