Opportunity only knocks once, and it usually comes when you least expect it. So, when it does, you must think and act fast to ensure you take advantage of the chance.
Samantha Frye, 18, from Ohio, acquired the restaurant where she worked as a teen when she learned that the owners were interested in selling the business.
Samantha did not think twice, followed her instinct, and used her college funds to pay the downpayment.
At just 16 years old, Samantha Frye began her journey at Rosalie’s Restaurant in Strasburg as a dishwasher.
Over time, she worked to become a kitchen prep and line cook, juggling her responsibilities alongside her father and at another local restaurant, according to PEOPLE.
However, Samantha’s life took an unexpected turn when she discovered that the owners of Rosalie’s were considering selling the business. Trusting her instincts, she made a bold decision, deviating from her original plan of studying environmental engineering at Ohio State University.
Samantha explained that she started thinking that maybe this was something she wanted to do. She also said that she had a considerable amount of money saved up for college.
Taking a leap of faith, Samantha withdrew from her studies, and used her college funds to make the down payment for the restaurant. In April, she officially took ownership.
“I was like, I could possibly do this,” Samantha said.
Although Samantha had never envisioned herself on this career path, becoming a restaurant owner became a priority.
“Right now, this is so new; this is my priority,” she said. “Five days of the week, I’m in here. If not in here, I’m back there doing prep. I’m in the office the other two days doing meetings with the sales reps.”
Samantha started working at 14 and working on two jobs by 16. One of her jobs is at Rosalie’s
“I eventually had three jobs at one point. And then I worked with my dad. So, basically, I just worked a lot,” Samantha said.
Samantha’s mom, Brandi Beitzel, described her as a “go-getter.”
“Sam just has me in awe! I think back to when I was her age, and there is no way I would have had the knowledge or the courage or even be able to wrap my mind around the enormity of owning a restaurant,” Brandi said.
Don Gerber, the restaurant’s regular customer from Strasburg, greatly admires her. According to him, she is an exceptional young lady with remarkable qualities.
She exudes a sense of maturity, having everything meticulously organized and a clear vision of her aspirations. Not only does she pursue her dreams, but she also maintains a warm and approachable demeanor.
Gerber has been acquainted with her since the beginning of her employment and even shares a connection through her late grandfather, Gregory Beitzel, and great-grandfather, Orin Beitzel, both affectionately known as “Spike.” This endearing nickname, coined by Gerber and his regular dinner companions, reflects their affection for her.
Gerber finds her accomplishments awe-inspiring, particularly her ability to juggle academic commitments alongside her demanding schedule. The news of her purchasing the establishment using her college funds surprised Gerber and others.
It’s truly remarkable to witness an 18-year-old displaying such financial independence, possessing enough funds for a down payment. Instances like these are rare and speak volumes about her character and determination.
While her parents, Brandi and Jason Frye, are undeniably proud of her, Samantha shared what her mom felt upon learning about her decision. Brandi wants her to finish college, and the sudden shift in plans left her angry.
Brandi candidly expressed her reservations about Frye leaving Ohio State University, using her college funds to acquire a business, and embracing such a substantial responsibility at a young age. However, with time, her perspective shifted, realizing that though it may not have aligned with her dream for Samantha, it was the path her daughter wanted.
Over time, Brandi’s pride in her daughter’s accomplishments grew. Having worked in the restaurant industry for 22 years, Brandi acknowledges the hurdles and challenges for Samantha.
Nevertheless, she firmly believes that Samantha’s tenacity and ambition will propel her to reach new heights, as the possibilities are limitless.
In addition to Samantha’s passion for her venture, her commitment to the environment shines through in her decision-making at Rosalie’s.
She expressed her desire to implement composting to minimize food waste at the restaurant, showcasing her concern for sustainability.
Moreover, Samantha said she had no intentions of changing the restaurant’s name, USA Today noted.
“It’s working,” she said. “Why change it?”
A happy client named Ed Weaver stressed the value of keeping the name, joking that he would find it difficult to remember if it were to change.
Bob and Stephanie Roth, the previous proprietors, have made a heartfelt decision to stay in the house adjacent to Rosalie’s.
Their motivation behind this choice is to ensure that Stephanie’s widowed father, Bob Shuman, who currently resides in the connected apartment, receives the care and attention he needs.
Furthermore, they have committed to providing ongoing support for Samantha and Rosalie’s.
Bob Roth has helped by making pies, while Stephanie has guided Samantha in making the soups.
“We’re there to support her and help her any way she can make this a success,” Stephanie said. “We’re not walking away. I can’t do that. It’s too hard.”
Samantha said, “You don’t need college to make a decent living, and I think that’s what many people think nowadays. Follow your instinct, honestly. If it feels right, do it.”
Watch Samantha’s inspiring story below:
