Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cortney Colich, Founder of The Vibe Dance and Fitness, located in Plymouth, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Vibe Dance and Fitness is a boutique-style training facility for dancers in Plymouth, Minnesota. We offer supplemental training opportunities for dancers looking to gain more knowledge and experience, improve their skill level, reach their goals, and thrive in a challenging yet supportive environment. With top-notch instructors, we pride ourselves on being able to supply quality training to each dancer that steps through our doors. Our clientele ranges from ages 5-adult, and we offer a wide variety of class and level options.
Tell us about yourself
I've been a dancer all my life. I started dancing at age 4 and never looked back. I grew up training as a competitive dancer at a local studio called The Dance Shoppe in MN. I trained in numerous styles, including jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, jazz funk, hip hop, pointe, and tap. After high school, I went to the University of Minnesota, where I majored in advertising and where I was a 4-year member and senior captain of the University of Minnesota Dance Team. While on the team, we won six national championships and two world championships. I went on to work and teach in the dance industry for several years, traveling nationally and internationally. I was able to work with and choreograph for a wide variety of different dance teams and studios, which gave me invaluable teaching experience. I opened The Vibe in May of 2019. I wanted to provide a space for dancers to receive high-quality training without the full commitment that your usual dance studio would require. This space is meant to give dancers an option to do what they love no matter what their individual path might be. Outside of dance, I'm a dog mom to my dog Moose. I love spending time with my family and friends, traveling and exploring new places, cooking, and staying active.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think this speaks to many business owners, but just starting a business from the ground up is one of the biggest accomplishments in itself. It's scary and intimidating taking that risk, not knowing exactly what the future will hold or if your idea will succeed. For me, I knew that there was a place for this type of business in MN. I knew that I love to dance and wanted to create something that centered around my passion. I took my time to create a concept, did my research, utilized my resources, and put blood, sweat, and tears into this business. Another accomplishment as a business owner would be the fact that I get to see dancers thrive in a space that I created. It makes me beyond happy to see clients come to our studio and find joy in what they're doing. I couldn't ask for much more than that.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
To be honest, there are quite a few, but the question is, is it worth it? It definitely is for me. Being a business owner (especially a small business owner) means that you are responsible for every part of your business, from marketing, client relations, social media, finances, scheduling, staff management, teaching class, and more. It's not easy to balance it all and still find time for your personal life. Finding that balance takes time and practice, which I'm still working on. Even with all of the responsibility, you get to see the outcome of your hard work. Witnessing our clients achieve their goals makes it all worth it for me.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Let your passion outweigh your fear: Although starting a business comes with stress and with fear of failure, don't let that stand in your way of creating something you really care about. As long as you put everything you have into it, you won't have regrets. Use what you do know, and continuously learn and grow in the areas you don't. Taking risks is the only way to create a successful business.
- Be willing to adjust as you go: When you own a business, you will constantly be learning what does and does not work. Be okay with making changes, trying new things, and finding new ways to help your business thrive. Just like people, businesses grow and change as time goes on; allow yourself to be open to new possibilities.
- Believe in yourself: If you're thinking of starting a business, you most likely want to start that business for a reason. Whether it's that you know the market, that you have a special skill set, you want to build on your passion, or that you want to be your own boss. Use that reason as your drive behind everything you do. That reason is what makes you and your business special. Don't let doubt or the opinions of others within that same field affect your goals. Believe that you can create something special.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://thevibedanceandfitness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevibedancefitness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevibe_dancefitness/
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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