Check her out: Michelle Griffith of Firehouse Grilling Co.!

What exactly is your business?

We are NOT your “typical” food truck. Think of your local fire station, your favorite restaurant and the best party you’ve ever been to- mix them all together and you have Firehouse Grilling Co. We converted a Fire Engine into a Food truck!

How did you come up with your business idea?

My husband is a Full Time Fire Captain and also the Firehouse Chef. His food is amazing!! Everyone would tell him he should open a restaurant, but with the Fire Dept being his main job, we knew a restaurant would be too much of a time commitment, so we thought a food truck would be a great fit.

 

How did you find out about Aviatra?

I found out through Facebook

What is your inspiration?

Books and podcasts. We live out in the country and it takes forever to get anywhere, so I downloaded the Audible App and listen to books and podcasts in my car.

What has been your biggest accomplishment with your business so far?

Being able to employ 16 people and being able to work in collaboration with major brands such as Nascar, Cedar Point, Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

What was the most valuable thing you’ve gained from your experience with Aviatra?

Without a doubt the connections. I met my accountant and attorney through the program.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced while working to start your business?

Growing pains. We can’t keep up with the demand of the truck. We want to grow, but want to keep it manageable.

Where do you hope to be in 5 years?

Maybe a few more trucks in different states with owner operators.

Any advice for future Aviatras?

Don’t wait until your idea is perfected to start. Start now!! On Dec 31, 2015 we thought of this idea. On January 3, 2016 I had 26 events already booked solely based on an idea.