Leanne Flockhart discusses her journey from dreams to reality in the cafe business.
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From dreams to reality: The story behind Sweet Mumma’s Kitchen
In the heart of Aberdeen, Leanne Flockhart turned her long-held dream into a reality by opening Sweet Mumma’s Kitchen. After spending over a decade running music and movement classes, she seized the opportunity to create a unique cafe experience that the city was missing.
With a vision inspired by vibrant cafes in larger cities, Leanne aimed to provide high-quality food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Overcoming challenges in a pandemic
Launching a cafe during the pandemic presented significant challenges for Leanne. With no prior experience in the food industry, she faced a steep learning curve.
However, her passion for creating a warm and inviting environment quickly resonated with the local community. Sweet Mumma’s Kitchen became a beloved spot, where customers felt like family, thanks to Leanne’s attention to detail and personalized service.
Community support and recognition
Leanne credits her family and loyal staff for their unwavering support throughout her journey. Their commitment has fostered a sense of familiarity among customers, who often return to enjoy their favorite orders. This strong community connection has not gone unnoticed; Sweet Mumma’s Kitchen has received multiple awards, including a recent nomination for the Business Women Connections (BWC) Athena Awards. Although they didn’t win, being highly commended for hospitality and tourism was a significant achievement for Leanne.
Future aspirations and industry challenges
Despite the successes, Leanne faces ongoing challenges, particularly with rising costs and competitive pricing. She advocates for a lower VAT rate for the hospitality sector, which would greatly assist small businesses like hers. Looking ahead, Leanne dreams of expanding her cafe to include a dedicated events space, further enriching the community experience at Sweet Mumma’s Kitchen.
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