Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kelly Wadden, owner of East Coast Wellness Clinic, located in Halifax, NS, Canada.

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

We are a multi-disciplinary clinic in the core/downtown of Halifax, Nova Scotia. We provide Massage, Acupuncture, Osteopath, Community Yoga, and Yogassage in a safe and nurturing environment. We strive to bring quality care to our clients and therapists.

Tell us about yourself

I initially opened up space above a Yoga Studio (Originally Modo Yoga Halifax) in downtown Halifax 11 years ago! Within four years, I realized quickly we needed a team of therapists to care for our ever-growing clientele. We moved into our current space in 2017 and have attracted more than 1900 clients, and currently have seven therapists. Improving the well-being of our community fuels me greatly.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a business owner, you balance growth and quality, and I am so proud of how the clinic has grown organically and the incredible individuals that walk through our doors. We have attracted inspiring individuals that seek out ways to raise funds for local organizations that support marginalized communities, anti-racism, and anti-oppression education. We do this by providing PWYC (Pay What You Can) treatments and community events.

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

As a mother to three boys under the age of three right now, I am trying to create a healthy work-life balance. I can feel myself wanting to accelerate as a business owner; however, having to be patient with what is realistic. Giving control to others can be something many of us resist doing. That is why surrounding yourself with people who have great judgment; for example, Jenn, our ECWC manager, is an exceptional individual who I trust greatly, and it only serves the clinic in a positive direction.

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

  1. Honest Communication. This is a huge factor in ensuring those you work with know your goals and energy doesn't get exerted unnecessarily.
  2. Build your team right. When you surround yourself with kind, hard-working individuals, it will ensure you become the best version of yourself and create an environment people are going to want to work in.
  3. Don't take yourself too seriously and overconsume yourself with the things you can't control. Obviously easier said than done sometimes but in a therapeutic environment, your therapists/clients fuel off your energy. If you are constantly trying to fix the things out of your control, you lose out on learning from those around you.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Be grateful for your victories, and take the time to reflect on your progression.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.ecwc.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eastcoastwellnessclinic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastcoastwellnessclinic/

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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