Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in dance training but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jacqueline Hill, Owner of ELITE Dance Studios, located in Valencia, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
ELITE Dance Studios is a dance studio that caters to dancers as young as 2 through professional young adults.
Tell us about yourself
I opened ELITE in 2006 to offer professional level dance to the youth of the Santa Clarita Valley, something that had not been previously available. To offer a professional space where dance and the possibility of a career in entertainment were wrapped in a positive, loving environment that teaches the dancers to be grounded, gracious humans. The results and relationships motivate me daily. Knowing that we are contributing not only incredible dancers with amazing performance ability but healthy humans to the new generations of dancers is a constant motivator.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The studio turns 16 in October 2022, and while I continue my career as a choreographer, teacher, and mentor, one of the biggest accomplishments has been our Christmas show "The Magical Journey of Hope," created for our studio to bring something new and fresh to the stage rather than another Nutcracker. Written, produced, directed, costumed, and choreographed by my partner and me, it is now in the beginning stages of a fully professional cast here in Los Angeles and then heading to Broadway!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Learning not to take things personally and understanding that your product is not meant for everyone.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Be prepared to do everything yourself. Remember that everyone wants to feel loved and that their presence matters. Take care of yourself in the process of taking care of everyone else!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Owning a business has been a thrilling experience filled with many lessons. Be prepared to work harder than you ever could imagine for 10 or 15 years but DON'T GIVE UP!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.elitedancestudiosca.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitedancestudios
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitedancestudios/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ELITEdncstudios
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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