Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lori Taranto, Owner of Pure Power Pilates + Fitness, located in San Diego, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is a full-service boutique Pilates, Fitness & Wellness Studio. We offer personal training and small group Pilates, fitness, and yoga classes. As well as therapeutic massage, fascial stretch therapy, and structural integration bodywork. Our customers are local men and women as young as 18 and as old as 97. Our clients have one thing in common, the desire to live actively without pain.
Tell us about yourself
My passion for fitness began after a 15-year career in Interior Design and watching my mother suffer from early onset of dementia, who passed at the age of 60. I realized that I couldn't help my mother, but I could take better care of myself and others. When I discovered Pilates, I realized that this form of movement is great for all ages and levels. Remembering where my passion began and why keeps me motivated, along with the many people I have helped throughout the last 10 years.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has to be navigating a small business during a pandemic. Being the sole owner of my studio means that all financial decisions are on me. Making it through the past three years was very difficult, and I'm thankful and blessed to still be providing our healthy services to my community.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing has been being on 24/7. When you are a business owner, you have to be on 24/7 and wear many different hats until you are financially able to delegate to other consultants, i.e., marketing, social media, website, cleaning services, accounting/payroll. Finding the balance between the business and home/family.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Your business idea should reflect something you're passionate about.
- Unless you have a business degree, running a small business for me was a lot of trial and error. I've learned a lot through research and experience.
- Expect there will be many unknowns. So, surround yourself with good networking of experienced industry members. Expect help when needed.
- Have a clear plan with short and long-term goals.
- Be authentic, remain humble, and have fun!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.purepowerpilatessd.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purepowerpilates/
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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