Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in a dance company, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amber Saraceno owner at Expression Dance Studio based in Westmont IL, USA.
Tell us all about your business...
We are a dance studio sharing our love of dance with everyone! Classes start at 12 months and go through adult! We have classes for beginners through advanced. Not only is dance great for fitness and social interaction but it will bring a smile to your face the instant you step on the floor!
What's your background and motivation to grow as a entrepreneur?
I have wanted to open my dance studio since I was a little girl. It has been my dream my whole life. I wanted to create a community where everyone was welcome and has a strong family foundation. Appropriate music, costumes, and dance moves are a priority. Our dancers are always put first no matter their level of commitment. Everyone is treated equally and every one of my dancers is made to feel special and important. Sharing my love for dance every day is simply a dream come true, and even on my most difficult workday, I feel like the luckiest person because I can do what I love and what I have dreamt of since I was a little girl.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I opened my doors in 2009 with 50 students in a 1000 sq ft facility. At the end of my first year, we had 200 students! Then 13 years later we have created a community of over 600 dancers and built our new home in 2015 with 6,600 sq ft and six dance rooms.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a entrepreneur?
The hardest thing with being a business owner is that your brain never "shuts off" from work mode. I am constantly thinking of things I have to do for my business from morning till night and frequently in the middle of the night.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run or grow a small business today?
- Full commitment to your vision. It's easy to let others sway you. Don't let them.
- Word of mouth is stronger than any online advertising you can create. Make sure your clients are happy. Happy clients share their experiences and bring you more happy clients!
- You have to have tough skin and be able to handle criticism. Through the negativity, you will ultimately be able to attract clients who believe in your vision and your community.
What are some of the things you put in place to maintain a healthy work/life balance and to keep it all together?
Face-to-face communication. It helps to remind my clients how important they are to me.
Where can people find you online?
Website: https://www.expressiondancestudio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressiondancestudio/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eds5678/
Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/eodbl131
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@expressiondancestudio?
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share then email community@subkit.com, we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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