We have all probably fantasized about creating a side business that has the potential to grow into something big—a business that would make us proud to have created it. Only a few people, however, are actually willing to commit the time, effort, and energy to turn their pet idea into an actual functioning business. Also, starting a business is definitely outside the comfort zone of so many people who have no business background. In short, they lack the confidence they need to get a business started. At Confident Money, we love highlighting people who experienced this initial reluctance, yet overcame it to follow their dreams.
Here is Eden’s story in her own words (Eden is an exceptionally good writer in addition to being a sharp entrepreneur). She put in the effort to overcome her lack of business background and the natural reluctance we all face when considering a new undertaking. Read about her journey below.
Eden’s Story
Hi, my name is Eden. I have a vending machine business called Garden of Vending in Austin, Texas. I currently have five machines.
I honestly got started in the snack and drink business when I was 14 years old in high school. I remember being in art class at the end of the day, and a kid yelled out to the class, “Is anyone selling snacks?” No one answered, but a light bulb went off. I started to think to myself, Wait, I could sell snacks. That’s how I started my entrepreneurial journey.
I sold all through high school, and I actually enjoyed it. I learned so much during that experience. I gained knowledge about what sells and what doesn’t, how to run a business, and how to overcome obstacles. It was technically my first job, and I had to learn how to be an employee and a manager at the same time.
I got caught selling by school personnel twice, but to be honest, that didn’t stop me. I viewed it as, How can I continue doing something I like without getting caught again?
After high school ended, around the Summer of COVID 2020, I was lost, and I wanted to start a business but didn’t know what. So, I was on YouTube one day and saw a video of a guy collecting money from his machines. I was surprised because I didn’t know regular people could create this business. I thought only big corporations did that. I saw he offered a course, so I bought it. From that course, I created everything I needed.
But I was shy. I didn’t want to do the hard part, which was asking owners if they’d like a machine placed in their business. So fast-forward to the beginning of 2022. I had gotten into a really bad headspace and was seeing a therapist. I told her my business idea, and she said, “Okay, I’m gonna give you homework. Call 10 businesses and ask them if they would like a vending machine placed in their business.” This was on a Tuesday; the next session was in a week. I procrastinated so badly, I waited 30 minutes before the next session to make that first phone call.
The first two calls, no one answered. On the third one, the manager picked up, and I gave him my pitch. He said, “Yeah, come tomorrow at 2:00 p.m., and we can talk more.” At that very moment, I was so happy and thrilled! I realized at the end of the day, the only person stopping me was me. Since then, it has been a very good journey. I have had some bad moments, but the good moments always outshine the bad!
This year, a short-term goal I plan to achieve is to get five more machines. I am headed in the right direction. A long-term goal would be to build my business to a point where I get a warehouse and hire a team to help me refill machines and take care of the inventory.
I owe all my success to God! He has helped me overcome so many obstacles and to never give up on what I see for myself. To anyone who wants to start a vending machine business, a different business, learn a new skill, or do anything in life, just do it! Don’t be scared. Because you never know what could happen and be on the other side of your success! Why live life wondering “what if?”
By the way, I’m on Instagram if anyone would like a machine placed in their business. Don’t hesitate to contact me there or by email. God bless y’all!
Thank you for the opportunity to share my story, Larry!
My Conclusion:
This was not an easy journey for Eden, but as you can see, she overcame the obstacles that blocked her progress. She risked being emotionally vulnerable (a big deal for her) in addition to her startup capital and time. After meeting Eden, I recommend her service without reservation if you need a vending machine at your business.
~ Larry Faulkner
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