Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lauren Hanna, Founder of Dance Out Loud, located in Boston, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Dance Out Loud provides high-quality and meaningful recreational adult dance classes through fostering a community amongst dancers and non-dancers alike. Our goal is to provide opportunities for self-growth and community building where dancing out loud transcends into living out loud!
Our offerings range from Beginner-Advanced and include classes, 1:1 private sessions, group privates, and bachelorette parties. We have also provided dance/choreography for music videos, concerts, and other events. Due to multiple offerings, our customers have ranged from ages 18-50!
Tell us about yourself
I started dancing at 5 years old, and I continue to evolve in my movement each year. My business was initially inspired by both my love of dance and my realization that there was a gap in classes that inspired others to be better people and dancers. I wanted to bring something new to the dance scene!
The energy I leave my classes, practices, and events with is unlike any other! The feeling of confidence, support, and empowerment keeps me motivated each day, especially because my customers feel it, too!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is the easiest question to answer! It is 100% hearing my students share that my dance classes have helped them achieve their personal goals, overcome individual battles, and lead a more fulfilling life.
From growing in their comfort with themselves, working towards their dreams, or reconnecting with their love of dance, their stories make me want to grow my business to reach even more people!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most difficult parts of being a business owner for me is being a young female entrepreneur who is learning how to navigate finances, policies, and website creation. Although this side of owning a business is challenging, I make a conscious effort to learn these skills so that I can maintain independence.
Since these tasks are daunting, I try to balance the time I spend on them with the time I spend creating.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The top three tips I would share with anybody looking to begin a business are:
- Passion - Choose a business you are passionate about! There have been so many hurdles in my business journey, but my passion for dancing, teaching, and spreading my mission keeps me going.
- Mentorship - Find a mentor that you look up to and learn as much as you can from them! I am a firm believer that it takes a village, and I am so grateful for the one that I have created!
- Go For It - Lead with confidence! Intrusive thoughts, doubts, and worries are normal. Try to push through them and continue to live out loud!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.letsdanceoutloud.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letsdanceoutloud
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_danceoutloud_/
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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