Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kayla Doyle, Founder of The Barre, located in New Bedford, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a barre studio that offers a low-impact workout that methodically works to strengthen each area of the body. We do this with exercises that build muscle endurance, joint function, mobility, and strength. In short, you will tone, strengthen, and lengthen your muscles. Barre was developed inspired by dance, so the exercises are related to the strength and stamina you might build as a dancer, but they also are very effective in restoring and preventing joint pain, all while toning and tightening your body. Our customers are no one profile.
EVERY.BODY.WELCOME is what we like to say, simply because you can be any age, fitness level, male, female, and everything in between, but this will serve you. It becomes more effective the stronger you get, but we always meet you where you are.
Tell us about yourself
I took barre for the first time when I was working in Boston and went in thinking it would be one and done. I was an athlete and a runner, so more or less, I worked more independently to keep up my fitness. I was not much of a class taker, but the day I took a barre class, I literally went home and said I wanted to own my own studio. A seemingly silly dream, but the workout speaks for itself. I had never felt more balanced in how I was working my body, but more CONNECTING to it. I got pregnant with my first son, which changed my course. We moved further from Boston to make it work, but I could not lose it. I started working from a gym that really helped me develop my own craft and version of this whole barre movement. Fast forward, I reached out to an incredible, business-minded, loving, inspirationally driven woman. I simply had questions, and months later, we were in business in downtown New Bedford. New Bedford was important to us because not only was it where we were from; we saw the magic that was blooming and wanted to be a part of building the incredible community that makes up New Bedford. We realized there was nothing like what we were going to do, and we wanted to make it special. The community was huge for us. The experience was a priority. In the industry of fitness, it can become competitive or feel exclusive. One of our biggest goals was to create a space where every single person that walked through the door felt welcome. Not only was that successful, but our clients have taken over. They invite new clients with open arms, show them around, and make them feel at home. It's a truly special experience. So to finish it off, that is what motivates us. The people.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest accomplishment as a business owner is, I think, becoming a BUSINESS OWNER! ha! But seriously, I think it is actually seeing our vision come to fruition. I had been in the industry for a while, and I wanted to run something different. It being in our home town New Bedford makes it all the more special. Seeing how people have responded and connected to it has become the most rewarding thing I can imagine. I will add surviving covid was huge. We really had to grind to get back to a place of inspiration and happiness, but we made it. With all of that said, we would be absolutely NOTHING without the support and dedication of our staff. Every single person that shows up brings their own creativity, connection, inspiration, and devotion. It is hard to believe we have such an incredible group of humans invested in what we do, but I am forever grateful and convinced it is why we have gotten this far.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about being a business owner is the constant uphill climb. It doesn't shut off, or it can't, rather. The second you stop trying, you fail. Finding a balance between personal life and passion/work is a tricky climb but worth it. Having a partner to share the weight makes it work, but you never stop caring or thinking about it. Much like having a baby, you can leave, but you always have a radar. It isn't necessarily a bad thing if it's something you are passionate about, but it is not for the weak!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Set standards, do your research, and never stop working to be better.
At the end of the day, we can always learn something, so dig for it. Respect the people that work for you and are invested. Invest in them, and they will most likely return that investment. Lead with love, but always keep to your standards.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thebarrenewbedford.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBarreNewBedford/
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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