An interview with Katie Pearsall of Rollin’ Oats in Quinte West.
Personal pronouns.
She/Her
Briefly describe your business.
At Rollin’ Oats we pride ourselves on being able to offer locally-made treats, handcrafted beverages and beautifully curated kitchen accessories, all while maintaining a focus on our commitment to using eco-friendly business practices wherever possible.
What brought you to the region?
I grew up in neighbouring Brighton and have always had a passion for entrepreneurship. As the daughter of a long line of car dealers based in the Quinte area, I knew that sales were for me and that there was no better place to be than right here in the Bay of Quinte region!
What makes the Bay of Quinte a good fit for your business?
We source all of our baked goods and coffee beans from local home-based makers, and with such a wonderful pool of community members to choose from it was the perfect choice. Our bakers range from school teachers to retired couples, all of who are vetted and health unit inspected.
What was the hardest thing about starting a business?
We opened during the middle of the pandemic just before the first wave of Omicron COVID variants hit. Although we couldn’t predict this, having shutdowns happen two months after opening wasn’t ideal. It was all about learning how to pivot to stay open, while still learning the ropes of a new business.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs in the area?
Get out there and source local! We have so many amazing makers in the region, and there really is someone for everything. By doing this you are not only supporting your business and family but those in your community as well.
How do you like to spend your days off?
I am a huge fan of supporting other local businesses and checking out what is new and exciting in the area. If it’s movie night, the Centre Theatre is my go-to. I’m also a huge foodie, so it’s great to have such a variety of restaurants in the area. I can’t forget to mention Presqu’ile Provincial Park which has so much going on in the winter and summer!
If you could have one word tattooed on you, what would it be?
Pivot. I think when you have a small business, you are constantly pivoting to keep up with trends, the economy and so much more. I’m also a huge fan of Ross on Friends!
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