We were lucky to catch up with Abigail Medlin recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Abigail, thanks for joining us today. Being a business owner can be really hard sometimes. It’s rewarding, but most business owners we’ve spoken to sometimes think about what it would have been like to have had a regular job instead. Have you ever wondered that yourself? Maybe you can talk to us about a time when you felt this way?
I am happy, It’s fulfilling for me. Of course it’s important to me that my client is happy with my work but I love getting to interact with people and get to know them while planning for the occasion or event. I have met so many wonderful people and made client turned friends through my work, that in itself has made it all worthwhile.
I did, and I do now actually. I like the stability it brings and prevents too much burnout for me. It keeps things fresh. What made me decide to find another job was that I needed a different set of goals and a new vision, I wanted to do what I went to school for. So far it’s been a good balance for me.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers?
My name is Abigail Medlin, I was born and raised here in San Antonio, TX. I am a graduate from McCollum High School, and an Alumni from Texas State University. I am a Jesus lover, wife, a mother, and a runner.
I was a new mother and wife, fresh out of college with my bachelors degree in electrical engineering. My initial plan was to take a year off to enjoy some time with my son before I would throw myself into my next adventure, my career. Well, life had other plans and not just for me, but for the entire planet! Once the pandemic hit, it was going to be hard finding a new job and we also didn’t think it was an ideal time to send our son into childcare if we didn’t have to. One day while my son was napping I decided to thumb through YouTube . One of my favorite models had recently started a YouTube channel and of course I watched every episode! On one of her videos she had invited the now charcuterie icon, Cheese Gal then known as Nashville Cheese Gal, and did a step by step tutorial on charcuterie design. I thought, “How cute is that?!” A few days later as fate would have it, my cousin in law suggested we put one together one night and I enjoyed it so much!! A good friend of mine saw my work and asked if I would put one together for his girlfriend for teacher appreciation week. I agreed and when he came to pick it up, he told me that I had a knack and talent for it. He made the suggestion that maybe I should consider starting my own business. That night I discussed it with my husband and we agreed that maybe I try starting small and seeing where it took us. I made an Instagram and showcased my work that week and it’s almost two years later. I have made wonderful friends and met clients that have become family. I couldn’t have dreamed up a better outcome that God had in store.
Almost two years later and I offer grazing table services, cups, cones, boards, and anything my clients and I come up with. I love having the opportunity and space to be creative. I think that sets me apart from others in my opinion. If my client has a vision of what they would like to see on a board, I make it my mission to make it possible. I love being included in my clients special moments. It fills me up to see them bring something special to the event or to help brighten up someone’s day.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I think being genuine and allowing my intentions to shine through my work has helped me to build my reputation and clientele.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Word of mouth! I would say about 80% of my new clients were referred to me by a friend.
Contact Info:
- Website: AbBeesCharcuteries.com
- Instagram: abbeescharcuteries
- Facebook: AbBees Charcuteries
Image Credits
Gabriela Wilson Photography Gabrielle Herrera