Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Michelle Petrowski, Founder of Green Apple Active, LLC, located in Zionsville, IN, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are Green Apple Active, a women’s active, life, and loungewear boutique, as well as a Pilates Reformer studio. We cater to clients of all ages and sizes, specifically targeting middle-aged, on-the-go women. We offer in-house spray tans and subscription boxes: the Core Box. At our studio, we teach Pilates Reformer Private and group lessons and offer infrared sauna sessions and some yoga.

Tell us about yourself

I moved to the area about 15 years ago. I have always had a passion for fashion (more outside the box, sporty fashion) and wellness. I opened the boutique in 2012 and in 2022 launched the Pilates studio! I’m motivated every day by my children and husband on the home front and my amazing clients on the business front. Every day is a blessing.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Wrapping up for the day knowing I dressed clients, who look and feel good about themselves, and I put clients through a workout to which they needed a physical and/or mental challenge. They go hand in hand, and I love both dynamics of this business.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

I have to laugh here… everyone is my friend! Really, truly! I love my clients! And we truly develop great friendships. This makes it challenging for me to do, especially when it gets down to the financial part of it. I would give everyone the world if I could, but I also have to remember my business is also my livelihood! Actually, I owe credit to my husband here. He always reminds me that my enemies wouldn’t support me, so it is likely everyone is a friend in some form!

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Have a clear vision! Some of this grows, and everyone tosses in opinions, but know what you want and what your goals are, and go for that!
  2. Set boundaries. For yourself, for your clients, and for your business. You want success and have to do this to succeed.
  3. Make sure your passion is there! If you don’t enjoy it, your wine be successful. Sure, we have bad days, and stress takes a toll at times, but truly love what you do and why you’re doing it!

Where can people find you and your business?

Facebook (Boutique): https://bit.ly/3ZtR5J7
Facebook (Pilates): https://bit.ly/40x33SX
Instagram (Boutique): https://www.instagram.com/greenapple_boutique/
Instagram (Pilates): https://www.instagram.com/greenapple_corefitness/

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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