Fitness and Lifestyle - VIAA

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Carolyn Pridham, Co-Founder of VIAA (Vitality Inspired Athletic Apparel), located in Outer Cove, NL, Canada.

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

VIAA is a functional activewear clothing company created with the female body in mind. Our flagship item is our "Resilient Legging" They have a leakproof gusset, additional compression for core support, and many other features that make these leggings a staple in any women's closet. Our founder is a pelvic health physical therapist who started this line two years ago during covid when she saw a gap in the activewear market. Our company started with the idea that every woman should feel comfortable and confident in their activewear and should not have to worry about unwanted dampness when they work out.

Tell us about yourself

My name is Carolyn Pridham (co-founder of VIAA), and I own a pelvic health multidisciplinary clinic in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada. I started treating patients with pelvic health concerns six years ago when I saw there was a great demand for this type of care in the health care system. During this time, patients would struggle to find activewear that met their needs as individuals. That is where the idea of VIAA started. We designed our flagship item, our "Resilient Legging," which includes a high-waisted compressive waistband for core support (especially in those postpartum), a four-layer leakproof gusset to protect against unwanted dampness (from urine, discharge, or menstrual fluid), and double pockets. These leggings have been meticulously thought through, even down to seam placement. We designed the top seam to sit above a traditional c-section scar to avoid irritation, and we have no front seam to decrease irritation to the vulva.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Learning what people's needs are and helping to be a part of the solution.

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

Starting and growing businesses in completely different markets: clinic ownership and fitness apparel.

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

1. Find a niche market that helps fulfill the needs of others.
2. No one will do the work for you, so make sure you are passionate about what you do.
3. Realize there are no days off, but in the end, it is worth it.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://viaa-shop.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vitalityinspiredathletics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalityinspiredathletics/

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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