Carol Rybinski – Tyne Valley Teas
I am Carol Rybinski, the sole proprietor of Tyne Valley Teas Café. But it takes a team to run a business successfully. My staff and I run a seasonal café offering fresh and delicious breakfasts and lunches to tourists and locals alike. We love hosting our signature Afternoon Tea Events, and catering family reunions, weddings and birthday celebrations in our intimate Tea House, or off site for groups up to 150!
When I first decided I wanted to open a restaurant, I had no idea how to make a business plan, nor how to apply for funding. The CBDC and RAC were there to introduce me to making a plan, taking me step-by-step through how to calculate costs, make a budget, and develop a business plan that our bank would accept. As a result we were able to get a modest loan through the bank, and CBDC also gave us a business loan so we were able to invest in equipment and other start- up costs.
Being able to make a strong business plan, and a firm budget was key to our first couple of years as we learned how to run and manage the business. Barb MacDonald did a great job of keeping us updated, and RAC offered so many training courses that really helped me, and my staff, hone our management skills. From business taxes, payroll, and human resources management to marketing and photography, I’ve had access to so many seminars and training sessions.
Being rural, we have to really hustle to find resources and customers. Having a Rural Action Centre in our region gives us a powerful local resource for training, business support and information.
“There’s a lot of help out there, and a lot of opportunity to collaborate with other entrepreneurs, but sometimes it’s hard to know where to look. Sometimes it’s hard to have the time to do all the research and then implement a new program, or solve a business dilemma, so having Barb at the RAC available to point the way has been incredibly valuable.”
– Carol Rybinski, Tyne Valley Teas Café
PHOTOS: atlantic360photography.ca