Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessica Kehn, founder of Artisan Dance Studio, located in Columbus, OH.

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

I own Artisan Dance Studio located in Columbus, Ohio. We believe that dance is for everybody, so at our studio, you'll find young dancers taking recreational classes, rehearsing with our competition team, or at the barre in our Ballet Academy.

What makes us unique is that in addition to our youth program - we offer a full program for adults. We offer Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop, and more at varying levels, so you can find a style and level that fits. When we say we teach dance to all ages, we really mean it!

Tell us about yourself

I have danced my entire life. Before I was officially enrolled in a dance class, I was stealing my older sister's tap shoes and performing in the kitchen. I started my business in 2012 with hopes of providing a safe space for dancers to pursue dance. I'm motivated every day by seeing my dancers improve, making connections and lifelong friendships, and seeing this beautiful community we've created. I also have a really incredible team that motivates me to be a better teacher, educator, and business owner. It's hard to not be inspired when you see so many people working so hard and expressing themselves and their artistry.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment is currently renovating a new building that we purchased into our permanent dance home. This was a former warehouse that had been run-down and vacant for more than a decade. I'm so proud we took this big step and took a neighborhood eye-sore and are turning it into a beautiful building for both our dancers and our community.

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

You can never turn it off: waking up at 3 am wondering if you sent that email, driving to the studio at midnight to double-check if the doors are locked, filling in last minute if an instructor is sick. I gave up on the idea I would work a normal 40-hour workweek, when you own your own business you work all the time. However, I love my job - so it doesn't always feel like work.

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

1. Write a business plan. This will guide you for years to come.

2. Be honest and transparent - your clients/customers will appreciate it.

3. Be flexible. Your business will not always be what you envisioned but lean in and let it grow and sometimes it'll turn out better than you could've imagined.

Where can people find you and your business?

https://www.artisandancestudio.com

https://www.instagram.com/artisandancestudio/

https://www.facebook.com/ArtisanDanceStudio/

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.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.