[quote]Our ideas start out as nothing, just talking out loud to each other. Snack&Munch was one of those ideas. After discussing the idea, we found that it could be a very good business model. So we started to plan on how we could implement it. We started doing research, one step at a time, until we had all the things we needed to launch.
Basically, once you have a solid idea, just do whatever you need to do to bring it to life. Don’t stop, just keep moving forward and eventually you will get there.[/quote]
Ammar and Farooq Yousuf are two brothers who founded Snack&Munch. They launched the site in March 2011, it only took 4 weeks to take it from an idea to reality. Snack&Munch offers users the ability to make personalized snackpacks that are shipped to your workplace or college, so you’re ready for the munchies.
Just recently launched, the site is becoming very popular around the country.
What are you working on right now?
We are working on developing new features and perfecting the Snack&Munch website. In addition to that we are reaching out to the community and trying to spread the word as much as possible. We love to get feedback from our customers so we can better improve their experience.
What does your typical day look like?
Well both of us work at a normal 9-5 desk job (at the same company). After work, we’re always talking and brainstorming of new ideas on how to improve Snack&Munch, how to make the experience better for our customers and how to market the service in various ways. Also we make the orders that we receive daily and ship them out the next day.
3 trends that excite you?
1. Video calls like Facetime.
2. Paying with cell phones like in Japan.
3. Books on iPad.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Our ideas start out as nothing, just talking out loud to each other. Snack&Munch was one of those ideas. After discussing the idea, we found that it could be a very good business model. So we started to plan on how we could implement it. We started doing research, one step at a time, until we had all the things we needed to launch.
Basically, once you have a solid idea, just do whatever you need to do to bring it to life. Don’t stop, just keep moving forward and eventually you will get there.
What inspires you?
Other entrepreneurs, other ideas, other rags to riches success stories. We get inspired when we hear about these things because it tells us that anything is possible as long as you believe in it and you keep on trying, no matter what other people say.
What is one mistake you’ve made, and what did you learn from it?
Not having enough inventory on hand. Sometimes we’ve had orders and we ran out of the item that was ordered so we would have to hustle to get it. We learned you have to make sure to have enough inventory on hand in advance 🙂
Also we’ve learned from past business ventures, that you can’t cater and please everyone. You have to find a niche market and target that, once you get a niche market it becomes much easier.
What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?
You have to find a problem in life or something that would make life easier for people and try making a business around that. If you can solve a problem or make something easier for someone then you’re on to something.
An idea we had was a plant-scaping company for homes and businesses, where we come to your place and manage your plants.
What is the one book that you recommend our community should read, and why?
Tipping Point, it really showcases great stories that inspire entrepreneurs. After reading that I felt like I could also be like one of those people.
What is your favorite gadget, app or piece of software that helps you every day?
Gmail, Google apps, iPhone, Facebook, Twitter.
Who would you love to see interviewed on IdeaMensch?
Anyone who went against the odds and naysayers and became successful. The underdogs. We love Cameron Herold and Blake Mycoskie, get them!
Do you enjoy starting and running your own business?
Yes, its the best thing ever, beats a 9-5 desk job ANY DAY! We love the hustle and bustle of running around managing your own business!
How do you motivate yourself when you need a boost (when it comes to business, entrepreneurship, ideas, etc.)
We like watching some really cool YouTube videos:
Also, why do you want to start a business?
We don’t like working for other people, having others control our future, we want to be financially free, not have to worry about bills and be stuck in the rat race in the boring corporate world. We want to spend time with family, do things we enjoy and travel the world. We need a lifestyle that can accommodate that, the only way out is being your own boss in a business you enjoy.
Connect:
Site: www.snackandmunch.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/snackandmunch
Twitter: @snackandmunch
Mario Schulzke is the Founder of ideamensch, which he started a decade ago to learn from entrepreneurs and give them a platform for their ideas.