We were lucky to catch up with Sean Lee recently and have shared our conversation below.

Sean, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?

Haruka is derived from two Japanese words: “Haru,” meaning spring, and “Ka,” meaning scent. Combining these elements, Haruka represents the fragrance of spring. A season renowned for its vibrant colors, new beginnings, and enchanting scents that fill the air. Spring symbolizes a time of growth, rejuvenation, and the blooming of nature. We found this concept deeply resonated with our aspirations for our brand. The name Haruka also carries a symbolic significance. Just as spring is the peak season for all scents, we wish for everything associated with our brand to reach its pinnacle, like the captivating fragrance of spring. It signifies our commitment to excellence, innovation, and creating a remarkable experience for our customers.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

In my twenties, I discovered my passion for culinary arts while assisting my family in their food business. The hands-on experience ignited my creativity and sparked a deep love for crafting delicious and visually appealing dishes. Driven by my desire to create memorable dining experiences, I established my own business, Haruka.

At Haruka, we go the extra mile to ensure we receive the best ingredients, not only from the US, but also directly from Japan and Korea. We believe that sourcing the finest ingredients is essential to creating exceptional flavors and satisfying our customers’ palates. Sometimes, we personally visit vendors, searching for better quality ingredients or discovering new flavors to incorporate into our menu.

At Haruka, we specialize in offering a variety of fusion Japanese cuisine. Our menu is thoughtfully curated, blending traditional Japanese flavors and techniques with innovative culinary approaches. We believe in harmonizing the richness of Japanese cuisine with diverse influences to create unique and delightful dishes that cater to different palates. In addition to our delectable food, we take pride in curating an exceptional selection of sake and wine. Pairing the right beverage with our dishes enhances the overall dining experience and brings out the flavors in the most delightful way. We strive to continuously gratify and captivate our customers, offering them an opportunity to savor exceptional food and enjoy the artistry of culinary craftsmanship. Whether you’re seeking a memorable dining experience or exploring the world of fusion Japanese cuisine, Haruka is here to provide a feast for your senses.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

During the early stages of our business, my wife and I worked diligently, saving up money to serve as our seed money. We understood the importance of having a financial foundation to build upon, and we were committed to investing our resources into the venture. As we embarked on opening and closing several stores, we encountered both successes and setbacks. Some experiences resulted in profitability, while others incurred losses. We recognized that this was a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and fostering high morale is vital for the success of any business. At our company, we firmly believe that good employees are the foundation of a thriving business. Here is our advice on effectively managing a team and maintaining a positive work environment that cultivates high morale.

First and foremost, it is crucial to acknowledge that business success is a collective effort. Recognize that you cannot accomplish everything alone and that your team members play a significant role in achieving your goals. Expressing gratitude towards your employees is essential. Regularly show appreciation for their hard work, dedication, and contributions to the company’s growth. A simple thank you can go a long way in boosting morale and reinforcing their value.

Respect is another crucial element in effective team management. Treat your employees with respect, dignity, and fairness. Encourage open and honest communication, actively listen to their ideas and concerns, and value their input. Create a supportive and inclusive work environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions. Remember, when employees feel respected, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to the team’s success.

It is also so important to foster a sense of collaboration and teamwork. Encourage your team members to work together, leveraging each other’s strengths and supporting one another. Create opportunities for collaboration through team-building activities, joint projects, and cross-functional initiatives. Promote a culture of unity and shared goals, where everyone feels they are working towards a common purpose.

Lastly, strive for long-term relationships with employees. Foster an environment where loyalty is valued and employees are encouraged to grow with the company. Create opportunities for advancement and recognize their achievements and milestones. Employees who feel a sense of loyalty and longevity are more committed to the business’s success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://harukasakeandsushi.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harukasakeandsushi/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harukasakeandsushi/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoa2pCwOKFc4MyXBj4a9IxA
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/haruka-sake-and-sushi-la-ca%C3%B1ada-flintridge