top of page
Writer's pictureLaiza Maketso

Food and Wine Festival: Meet the Entrepreneur Behind Donna's Delicious Dozen


Columbus, Ohio Food and Wine Festival.
Traci Lukemire-owner Donna's Delicious Dozen.

Where did you find out about the Food and Wine Festival?

Experience Columbus page.


How do you start your day?

I generally start my day with stretching and meditation.


What inspired you to start your business?

Working 3 shifts in the corporate world for a company where I was just a number was not allowing me to be the best wife, mom, and all-around person I knew I could be. So self-improvement was what inspired me most.


What's your biggest drive in this business?

Building a legacy for my kids is my biggest drive.


Is there an entrepreneur who motivates you to push harder?

My In-laws! My mother & father in law have their own business in Cincinnati, Ohio, and my brother-in-law owns 3 restaurants in Louisville, KY. Seeing where they have started and where they now motivate me to keep pushing.


How do you feel about the future of Donna's Delicious Dozen?

Our future is bright! We have quite a few ideas already in the works to help us grow and do things in our industry that no one (or very few) are doing.


On average, how many hours do you work at your shop?

I am always working on the business! IT'S A LOT! Between the shop, food truck, and home office, I probably work (I am guessing) about 60 hours a week.


What's the most stressful part about running your business?

EMAILS! I NEED AN ASSISTANT! That may sound funny, but I get so many emails, it blows my mind.


Do you have a sick leave policy? How many sick days do your workers get annually?

No, we do not have a sick leave policy. I have a very reliable staff. They VERY RARELY call off. When they fall sick, I allow them to stay at home until when they recover. During this period, the rest of the staff step up to make it work.




On your website, you mention food truck services during events or within neighborhoods of Central Ohio. What made you venture into food trucks?

A food truck was always on my business plan. I just wanted a brick and mortar first, so people knew where to find me at all times, even when the truck wasn't running.


What's the success story behind Donna's Delicious Dozen?

My success is all due to hard work, sacrifice, dedication to my family and staff, and my awesome customers!



What tips and advice would you give to someone planning to venture into the donut business?

Prepare to make A LOT of donuts! You must love it! Don't be afraid to do what no one else is! Stay creative, and step out of the box sometimes.


Where do you see Donna's Delicious Dozen in the next five years?

Growth to several locations & food trucks. I see us in more than just Ohio. I see us setting out to do what no one else is doing in the industry.


Words of advice for someone planning to venture into the food business?

The food business is not for the faint of heart. There are many highs and lows. Be prepared to weather the slow months because they are there. Find creative ways to get your name out. I thought for sure people would show up; it doesn't work that way.

23 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page