Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amy Lingeman, Owner and Director of Studio A Center for Performing Arts, located in Commerce Township, MI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Studio A is a full-service dance and performing arts school. We offer classes for 18 months up through adults.
Tell us about yourself
It has been a dream of mine to open a dance studio for as long as I can remember. Sharing dance with the next generation of leaders is something I do not take for granted. Dance is a sport that provides therapy, teaches teamwork, inspires leadership, encourages authenticity, and keeps kids active and healthy. It is an honor to leave it all on the floor every day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Surviving the pandemic was truly our biggest accomplishment. When everything shut down, my staff and I scrambled faster than anything you could imagine, and we were fully virtual and totally connected with our community. I promised my students that they were going to perform their recital that June, and we came through safely.
We built a stage in the middle of a race track, created a full drive-in recital with music streaming through the radio, and rechoreographed every piece to keep all dancers 6 feet apart. It was incredible and a true lesson that when you surround yourself with strong, loyal, creative people, you can achieve anything.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being a studio owner is a lot like being a parent. Even when you're not working, it is still there in the back of your mind. There is rarely a time that I can just shut it off and not think of what I could or should be doing. It has taken a long time to get here, but I am finally getting to a good work/life balance.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Surround yourself with efficient and trustworthy people.
- Collaborate when you can to push yourself to bring your best work to the table.
- Never stop learning. The more educated you are, the more confident you will be. Your confidence backed with knowledge will bring you clients.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.studio-a.biz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StudioAWalledLake/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studioacenterforperformingarts/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.