Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gabrielle Marshall, Owner of Evergreen School of Balleta, located in Evergreen, CO, USA.

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

We are a ballet studio serving dancers from Pre-K through adults. We offer mostly ballet instruction but also have musical theater, contemporary, and beginning hip-hop. We have male and female dancers from all over the mountain area.

Tell us about yourself

I started dancing at about three years old and studied ballet my entire childhood, leading to being accepted to the Washington (DC) School of Ballet as a 13-year-old.

I worked for many years in the L.A. and Dallas areas for large dance studios but always wanted to have my own studio where I could prioritize producing excellent dancers and happy and healthy young people. I love our dancers, and they keep me going.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

In 2022 we opened a second studio, doubling our number of classes and students. Considering we opened in 2019 and had a global pandemic to deal with, I'm amazed at how we have grown

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

I'm blessed in that my father handles all of the business aspects and allows me to concentrate on the artistic direction of our studio. However, I have to always keep in mind that to continue to serve our dance families. I do have to run it like a business.

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

  1. Be flexible and realistic. The business may develop in ways you don't expect, and you need to adapt to the market.
  2. Understand that it will take time. As the owner, there are times when you'll be working for free.
  3. Have a father who will take care of all of the business stuff!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I feel so lucky to be able to teach all of these wonderful young people and to work with our faculty of amazing dance teachers. My dream was to have a studio where dancers could learn and grow but also where it would serve as a safe space for them to develop as people. My three children all dance at the studio, and it's so special to be able to give them the gift of dance.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.evergreenballet.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EvergreenBallet

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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