Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melanie Piek, president of Vertical Fusion, located in Boulder, CO, USA.

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

Vertical Fusion has three Colorado locations that offer pole and aerial dance classes for adults. Our program is designed to inspire and empower through the art of dance.

Tell us about yourself

I have owned and operated Vertical Fusion studios for ten years now. I am inspired every day by members of our community exploring art through movement and discovering a new sense of confidence and empowerment.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being a niche business and achieving ten years last month was a huge benchmark for me personally and for my industry--especially after surviving two years of a pandemic.

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

Life-work balance has been my greatest challenge. When you invest a great deal of time, energy, and money into a business, failing is not an option, so it is difficult to maintain the balance between my work life and my personal life.

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

  1. Make sure you have solid organizational policies and procedures and be consistent in enforcing them.
  2. Set personal boundaries, and don't be afraid to say no when you need to.
  3. Stay inspired and convinced that you'll succeed--even during challenging times.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Know your brand, know your mission, and know who you are! Many challenges will come about that will make you question yourself and your mission. If you're not firmly rooted, it is easy to succumb to the weight of those challenges.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.verticalfusionstudios.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFusion
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/verticalfusion/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.