Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in martial arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Pauline Bak Costa and Lucas Wilhan, owners of Lapel Arts, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

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

Lapel Arts is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in the heart of Vancouver, the Fairview neighborhood. Our mission is to empower people through the practice of the sport! Jiu-jitsu is the fastest-growing sport and martial art in the world. It is similar to wrestling or Judo, but its laid-back nature allows it to be practiced by everyone. Our customers are anyone looking to improve their skills and create the confidence to deal with stressful situations in life, improve their physical and mental health and find an amazing community to be part of.

Tell us about yourself

We are both passionate about how Jiu-Jitsu changed our lives for the better, and we want to extend our passion to other people. We wanted to create an environment where everyone feels appreciated and elevates each other. Seeing an amazing community come together at Lapel Arts is what motivates us to keep doing what we do.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Opening our location in central Vancouver. We love Vancouver; we wanted to be part of the city and the lifestyle of the Vancouver people. It is challenging with the competition we have around, the high prices, and the competitive market. We were able to get a perfect location and make the academy exactly as we envisioned; we are very proud of our space.

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

I would say dealing with the pressure of the new and the unknown. We end up facing many different situations when it comes to service, and we want to make sure we deliver excellent service to our customers at all times. Not knowing what surprises the future can bring, especially after what the pandemic has shown us, it's stress we have to deal with.

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

  1. Have a clear business plan. The more you plan, the more prepared you will be. Think of all scenarios you can possibly run into and make sure you get your finances organized.
  2. Find support from your community, and build partnerships and good relationships. Reviews and endorsements go a long way to bringing customers and growth.
  3. Do it with love. Building a business is a hard thing, and that's why you got to love it! Always remember why you started, your goals, and the dream you envision.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Just like Jiu-Jitsu teaches us, in business, you got to always work hard and stay humble, keep your eyes on your goals and do the work!

Where can people find you and your business?

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

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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