Dublin City Enterprise News...Talks To
This month, we have a cuppa and a chat with Dairine Keogh, founder of tea of coffee wholesaler: Clement & Pekoe.
Sourcing the finest pickings of tea leaves and coffee beans from all over the world, the Clement & Pekoe brand offers hundreds of leaves, blends, herbs, tisanes and freshly roasted single origin beans.
What was the reaction of your family and friends when you started the business?
Mostly Friends and family were very supportive and in fact confirmed that I had always wanted to have my own business. Others who challenged my decision, meant it as a well - meaning exercise and it was. It proved I was determined enough to do this.
What was the greatest stumbling block?
Actually self-belief. Belief in my skills and awareness of the skills that I lack.
How did you overcome this?
A mentoring course run by the Dublin City Enterprise Board was invaluable to me in this regard. I was emotionally committed to my business before I invested financially. I have never looked back since. From Day One, I availed of the support on offer through the Enterprise Board. Firstly, a mentor assisted in giving me focus at the intial set up stage. Then The Women’s Network, run by Pauline Logan, is a fantastic way to meet like minded people and feel part of a group, especially when you work on your own day to day.
What is the best thing about being your own boss?
There is huge variety in my role, so no room for monotony.
What is the worst thing about being your own boss?
Not being as disciplined as I should be.
Does the reality of running a business differ from what you were expecting, before you started?
It’s tougher than I had ever imagined but ultimately I love what I do, am very passionate about my work and look forward to what each day brings, that is in itself reward enough.
The future for Clement & Pekoe?
I would like to have opened my own doors with a Retail Venue. I think I am retailer at heart and with my brand name 'Clement & Pekoe' above the door, I will be ecstatic.
Dairine can be contacted at dairinekeogh@clementandpekoe.com and the Clement and Pekoe range can also be purchased on-line at www.clementandpekoe.com