Today’s Notable Young Entrerpeneur, Pippa Henrichsen, knows a little something about finding a niche and capitalizing on it. Here’s how she’s turned her business, Vancouver’s first and only organic mobile cotton candy cart and event services, into a highly sought-after commodity in the city’s events scene…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the Owner and CEO of PetitePuf – Vancouver’s first and only organic mobile cotton candy cart and event services. I manage our daily operations, customer service, product development, and strategy, as well as oversee our events team.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
We started the company in 2014 after identifying a need for mobile cotton candy event services. PetitePuf offers unique cotton candy packages that include entertaining, catering, and décor services for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. I switched careers in 2014 to start my own business and have never looked back.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Being a small business owner is the most challenging and rewarding vocation. Every day presents its own unique opportunities, and being able to truly love what I do drives me. For me, time management is the most challenging. That, and finding good people to delegate to. You are only as strong as your weakest link.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
I know my work/life balance is off when I can’t put down the phone or step away from email on vacation. Turning off is a challenge for me as I love to work.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
As the CEO of one of the most well-recognized cotton candy confectionary brand in Canada.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Switching career paths and leaving a well-salaried job to begin a start-up definitely had its daunting prospects. Acknowledging the freedom and control that comes with small business ownership helped me overcome those fears.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success is being free to do what you love – whether it is a favourite hobby, a career, or a lifestyle, success is being able to afford the time to follow whatever it is that makes you happy.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Launching PetitePuf in 2014 and making the leap to go it alone. Becoming a small business owner is scary and rewarding at the same time. My career path will never be the same again.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Work hard and be nice to people. Like, REALLY nice to people. This will get you far.
Don’t be afraid to go for it or ask for it. And don’t sweat the small stuff. Enjoy the ride.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
In Vancouver we love to go to some of the more boutique and smaller restaurants. We are spoiled by amazing food and great mixology in our city, and almost everywhere you turn a new concept or restaurant has opened. Some of my favourites are Miku for Sushi, Chill Winstons for a Friday afternoon drink, and Boulevard for a business lunch.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Outside. Totally clichéd, I know. We live in Vancouver so we’re totally spoiled year-round. I am passionate about running so I love to get out in all kinds of weather. Whistler and snowboarding are also passions of mine for the wintertime, and paddle boarding is a favourite in the summer.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
New York and Paris. New York always has something new, and Paris always has something to teach you.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I am fortunate to be following my passion on a daily basis, so probably the same thing in a similar capacity.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
PetitePuf is involved in philanthropic events on an ongoing basis. We love to give back to the community and believe in supporting local causes as much as we can.
What to you is notable?
Anyone working to make this world a better place. And their efforts, no matter how big or small.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.
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