We recently connected with Ty Atkinson and have shared our conversation below.

Ty, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you come up with the idea for your business?

My journey from humble beginnings to launching my own restaurant has been a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and the pursuit of entrepreneurship. From a young age, long before I was familiar with the term “entrepreneur,” I carried within me an unwavering desire to own a piece of everything. This ambition, nurtured in the soil of my modest upbringing, eventually led me to pursue a degree in Finance from Fayetteville State University.

The idea for my restaurant was a gradual evolution, shaped by my experiences, education, and aspirations. As I navigated my way through university, my passion for entrepreneurship continued to burn brightly. Armed with a degree in Finance, I was equipped with the knowledge and skills to analyze opportunities and risks. But deep down, I knew that my dream was rooted in creating something more than just financial success – it was about crafting an experience that would touch hearts, spark conversations, and build connections.

The turning point came as I reflected on my own journey. I realized that my background had instilled in me a deep appreciation for the simpler things in life and a strong sense of community. It struck me that while there were many eateries around, there was a void in the market for a restaurant that not only served great food but also provided a space for shared experiences, a place that felt like an extension of home.

The logic behind my decision was a blend of passion, market analysis, and personal conviction. I was drawn to the idea of solving the problem of disconnection that often plagues the modern dining scene. People were yearning for more than just a meal; they craved an emotional connection. The concept of a restaurant that offered not only delectable dishes but also a slice of nostalgia and human connection was the spark that ignited my journey.

What set my restaurant idea apart was its unique approach. I aimed to offer a curated experience that combined the flavors of my upbringing with a welcoming ambiance. The space would be a reflection of my humble beginnings and my deep-rooted belief in the importance of shared moments. It was a way to address the longing for authenticity in a fast-paced world, to bring people together over familiar flavors and evoke memories.

The aspect that excited me the most was the prospect of creating a haven where people could unwind, converse, and celebrate life’s little joys. The thought of crafting a menu that told a story, of transforming ingredients into cherished memories, and of being a catalyst for connections filled me with an unparalleled sense of purpose.

In summary, my restaurant idea was an amalgamation of dreams, education, and a deep appreciation for my origins. It was a way to infuse authenticity into the dining experience, to solve the problem of disconnection, and to offer an oasis of familiarity and warmth. The notion of creating a space that bridged the gap between traditional flavors and contemporary needs, all while reflecting my own journey, was what truly excited me and gave me the conviction that this endeavor was worth pursuing.

Ty, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Absolutely, I’d be happy to share the story of your restaurant with the readers!

I’m a proud mother of two, and my journey into the restaurant industry was inspired by a desire to create a welcoming haven where families and friends could come together to enjoy American classics and take a much-needed break from their busy lives. My love for good food, combined with the joy of spending time with loved ones, fueled my passion to launch a place that offered not just great meals, but also a warm and inviting atmosphere.

At our restaurant, we specialize in serving American classics that resonate with the tastes and memories of our customers. From mouthwatering burgers and wings to crispy fries, delectable pizzas, and an array of baked goods, ice creams, and milkshakes, we offer a comprehensive menu that appeals to all ages. Our aim is to provide comfort food that brings people back to their favorite childhood flavors, while also offering a space to create new memories.

One of the key problems we solve for our clients is offering a sanctuary where they can escape the stresses of everyday life. Our restaurant isn’t just about the food; it’s a place where families can bond over shared meals, where friends can catch up and create lasting memories, and where anyone can find a moment of respite from reality.

What truly sets us apart from others is our genuine welcoming spirit and our commitment to giving back to the community. We believe in fostering good vibes, and our restaurant isn’t just a place to eat – it’s a hub of positive energy. Our involvement in community initiatives, charity events, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of those around us define our brand.

I’m immensely proud of creating a space that embodies the values of family, friendship, and community. The smiles on our customers’ faces and the laughter that fills our establishment are testaments to the atmosphere we’ve worked hard to cultivate.

What I’d like potential clients, followers, and fans to know is that our restaurant is more than just a place to grab a meal. It’s a destination where they can indulge in classic American favorites, relive cherished memories, and create new ones. Our commitment to providing an escape from reality and infusing positivity into every experience is at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s treating your taste buds or simply taking a break from the chaos, we’re here to offer a haven where everyone is welcomed with open arms.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

Acquiring the initial capital to bring my restaurant dream to life was a journey filled with determination, hard work, and unwavering belief in my vision. While seeking traditional funding for a startup in what some considered a “risky” business proved to be disheartening, I refused to let setbacks deter me from my goal. Instead, I embraced a path of resilience, innovation, and relentless effort.

Recognizing the challenges of securing external funding, I chose to take matters into my own hands. I dedicated myself to working multiple jobs and pursuing various side hustles, all with the clear purpose of accumulating the necessary capital. The days were long and demanding, but the thought of creating a space that encapsulated my dreams and aspirations fueled my determination.

My other half played an invaluable role throughout this journey. His unwavering support and belief in my vision provided both emotional strength and a collaborative partnership. We became a team, pooling our resources, talents, and determination to make our dream a reality.

The road was anything but easy. Balancing multiple commitments, managing the stresses of work, and navigating the complexities of startup planning demanded unwavering dedication. There were moments of exhaustion and doubt, but the passion for my restaurant concept and the deep-rooted desire to see it thrive propelled me forward.

With each hard-earned dollar saved, with every sacrifice made, we inched closer to our dream. The process was a testament to our grit and determination, a true reflection of the spirit that defined our journey. And when the time came to finally open our doors, the feeling of accomplishment was immeasurable.

In essence, the initial capital for my restaurant was built through a combination of relentless hard work, a willingness to embrace multiple roles, and the unshakable belief that my dream was worth the sacrifice. It was a journey undertaken with the support of my other half, a journey that transformed us into self-funded entrepreneurs who refused to let obstacles define our destiny.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

A lesson I had to unlearn on my journey was the belief that certain dreams could become unattainable as life responsibilities, like family, took center stage. Early on, I thought that pursuing my dream of starting a restaurant might be sidelined by the demands of life and family commitments. It seemed that the conventional narrative dictated that certain ambitions had an expiration date.

However, my journey shattered that misconception. I realized that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, regardless of life’s responsibilities. The backstory behind this realization was my own experience – juggling family obligations, work, and personal aspirations. I found that the passion for my dream remained undiminished, and the spark to create something meaningful persisted.

I decided to challenge the notion that certain aspirations should be left behind due to life’s demands. I firmly believed that my dreams were just as valid, even if pursued at a different pace or alongside other responsibilities. It was a mindset shift that required shedding the weight of societal expectations and embracing the idea that dreams can be realized on one’s own timeline.

Through this journey, I learned that by balancing determination, adaptability, and a willingness to recalibrate my approach, I could harmonize my dreams with my existing responsibilities. It wasn’t about putting one aspect of life on hold for another; it was about integrating them in a way that felt authentic and fulfilling.

So, the unlearned lesson was that life and family should deter us from our dreams. Instead, I discovered that by pushing forward, maintaining focus, and adapting to the changing landscape, we can achieve our aspirations, no matter the stage of life. It’s a reminder that dreams don’t have an expiration date; they can be nurtured and pursued at any point in our journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.pinkyseatsandsweets.com
• Instagram: Pinkyseatsandsweets
• Facebook: Pinky’s Eats & Sweets