Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sara Kathleen Jones, owner of Sarafine's Bodywork and Massage, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am trained in multiple modalities from around the world, including Swedish and clinical massage therapy, European reflexology, traditional head massage from Kerala India, Thai Yoga Massage, and Hawaiian hot stone massage, and I hope to guide you in finding the bodywork that best serves your needs.
Tell us about yourself
I work as a massage therapist or bodyworker. I identify as a woman, mother, guide, wisdom seeker, earth lover, and kitchen witch. I value community, curiosity, humility, freedom of choice, and personal integrity. I am passionate about learning and have devoted my life, specifically the last 14 years, to studying bodywork, meditation, and earth-centered medicine. I believe in the power of body and energy work to reclaim our inherent wisdom and love to support and witness others as they walk their own path.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment to date has been this year's "project." We are creating a retreat space in a geodesic dome about an hour outside Calgary on a gorgeous modern homestead for massage and reflexology, meditation coaching sessions, femme-centered circle meetings, and Reiki instruction.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Dealing with clients who claim they only have ‘allergies,’ but in reality have colds that they then give to you, the massage therapist, which puts you out of commission for a week. Having clients cancel last minute or even just a no-show for their appointment. That’s an hour that cannot be booked, and it feels disrespectful, I mean, emergencies happen, but just no-shows are hard. Being a business owner, being able to do the thing I love every day is amazing, and I love it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get a good accountant.
- Manage someone else's business before you crack out on your own.
- Don't be afraid to welcome others into your dream, hire that staff, and expand just before you're ready! And trust you choose the right people to support you.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Regular massages are the way to maintain the gains made in a session. Most massage therapists recommend having a massage at least once a month. This isn't about making money, this is about getting to know your body and being able to make a real difference in your life. The best practice is to stick with the hands that work best for you and receive massage regularly.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.katejonesrmt.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SarafinesBodyworkAndMassage/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-jones-rmt-96160363/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.