The Power of Food and Community | Meet Jenny Finau
We had the pleasure of connecting with Jenny, and we're excited to share our conversation with her below.
What inspired you to start your journey or business?
I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. At least that is what I know it to be now. Back when I was broke with no experience or education... I just was a hustler. Always scraping something together to try and make life work.
Last year, my position was terminated in Seattle. I was making great money, and living paycheck to paycheck. Being a single mom of three kids in Seattle, I was barely making it work. A month after I found myself unemployed, my lease was up. My grandmother became terminally ill around the same time, and that became my calling "home". I moved to Spokane with no job prospects and a general curiosity about starting something on my own. I spent months applying to everything I could, and wasn't even landing an interview. At the same time, I was casually looking at retail spaces to rent. My mantra was "cast a wide net".
Finally, after months of looking at places (including the space I am in twice over the course of 4 months), I was able to "see" my business model. Although I originally set out to start a bakery/cafe with a store front, the Universe had other ideas. Spokane Food and Events was born. The concept of having several pillars of revenue to leverage the space was a natural one, but the reality of what the business is becoming is still shaking out.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Oof. I don't even know where to start!! My first challenge was budget. I wanted to do this with the capital I had, but knew it would be some time before I was able to take a paycheck. I am still overcoming this.
I am a chef and an operator. Website, social media, etc. are my worst enemy. I feel like an 80yo when it comes to online presence. I bought a cheap website and it sucks. I hired a social media/marketing firm which was a good beginning, but my lack of knowledge and desire has slowed momentum. Recently, I found a local woman to help redesign the website, and I am confident we will work through it. One of my 2025 business resolutions is to stop being fearful and remove my blockage when it comes to my online presence.
Another challenge I face daily is my imposter syndrome. I am my own brand, and I hate being in the center of attention. Thankfully I have an amazing therapist and strong support that helps me with this. I have to constantly remind myself that I am worthy of promoting myself, my product and my brand. I have worked 20+ years to get to this place and I deserve it (she says on repeat in her head).
What do you love most about what you do?
I love being in the kitchen. I love cooking and being creative. I loooove to feed people and be a part of their special moments. I also love creating this kitchen space that is filled with other women producers and creators.
2024 was a really hard year that was full of change and the unknown. Finding moments to build my community and create space for friendship and food has given me so much fulfillment. It reminds me that I listened to the Universe and I am right where I should be.
How does your work or passion contribute to the Pacific Northwest community?
Creating food for people is the easy part. I think the best thing my business does for the community is to provide affordable spaces for food producers to work their hustle. Starting a business is hard and expensive. I love that my space offers a stepping stone for other entrepreneurs.
What inspires or motivates you every day?
Getting a paycheck eventually! Kidding (kind of). I want to have a space where (hopefully mostly women) can gather and create. I want to find more producers that are hustling to make their business ideas work. I also just want to cook and feed people.
What advice would you give to someone looking to follow a similar path?
The ups and downs of being a small business owner are massive. Some days it feels like you've "made it" and things are really taking off. Other days it feels like it will never succeed. Keep going. Move with confidence. Know what your money is doing (or not doing). Don't be afraid to ask your community for help when you need it. AND remember you cannot (and should not) do everything. Know your strengths and when to source help.
What are your goals for the next 1-3 years?
My goals are to create a thriving kitchen space that is busy, creative and full of life. I hope the rentals will get to a place where it pays my operating costs so I can focus on producing cool events and being creative with classes. Lastly, I want to launch my pickle empire!!
What’s something people might not know about you?
I have owned a nightclub in the heart of Chapel Hill NC. I produced the music side of the Bite of Seattle. I have 3 children ages 18, 15 and 11 and have raised them nearly on my own. I have a massive vinyl record collection. I am a triple Taurus.
What’s your favorite way to relax or recharge in the Pacific Northwest?
I just bought my own home in 2024. I purchased a single owner house that has a certified backyard wildlife sanctuary. I tore out the lovely grass lawn in my front yard to create a pollinator and produce garden. I love to putter inside and outside my home. It is a wildlife sanctuary... and mine. Oh, and good whiskey. :)
What’s a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest that everyone should know about?
Our state is filled with amazing things!! I am still discovering Spokane area, but near Seattle there are these cute little towns that are perfect to frolic in. Duval, Carnation, Monroe. They offer shops, antiques, restaurants and more. Oh, and don't sleep on the Spokane yard sale scene!!
How can people find you?
Website: www.spokanefoodandevents.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561176838565
