Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Janelle Biggs, Owner of Bells Pilates, located in Fairfield, CT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a small Pilates studio in Fairfield, Connecticut. The studio specializes in one-on-one training; sometimes, we do two-on-one training. A lot of our sessions are outside the box of a typical Pilates lesson so that they can incorporate strength training as well. Our customers tend to be anyone looking to go deeper into their physical fitness. They can go deeper to try and challenge their selves more or even to rehabilitate from an injury or pain. The beauty of the training we do at Bells Pilates is that we can really focus on anyone individually and make their bodies healthier and happier for them.
Tell us about yourself
I’m a dancer turned Pilates instructor, which is quite typical in our field. I have been a student of all things movement and body since I was three years old. This background has given me body language that I speak well, but there has to be more to the formula. My other skill is LOVING people. Maybe it was all the years of waitressing in New York City while I was dancing, but people motivated me. I love meeting a client, finding out their story, their desires, and goals, and trying to get them there.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think my biggest accomplishment as a business owner is collaborating with other businesses. I work with other practitioners to help enhance and bring my clients to the next level. As a whole, I believe this collaboration only helps us all. It takes a village!!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Saying No. I hate saying this. My business has just continued to grow, which I am extremely grateful for, but I hate saying no. I need more hours in the day to take care of more people. I know this is a good problem to have, but it upsets me when I cannot help someone.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My first tip would be to know exactly who you are and what you are trying to accomplish. I suppose this is a mission statement if you will.
The second tip would be to invest in the online help. That could be spending the money on a website with a designer or online marketing. An online presence makes a difference.
Third, I would say to make some time to be with yourself without all the work noise. Make sure to find some time to reflect, rest or do mindful meditation.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://bellspilates.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellspilates/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bells_pilates/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelle-biggs-63121172/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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