Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Steffanie Anderson, co-owner of YogaVega, located in Saratoga Springs, UT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a mind body fitness studio with classes in yoga, barre, Pilates reformer, TRX, bungee, dance fitness, pump, step, and aerial. Our members range in age from 4-80 and are men, women, and everyone in between. We also provide all kinds of retreats: women's, couples, and silent, both locally and abroad. We also do teacher training and public workshops.
Tell us about yourself
Tony has an MBA from Willamette University, and I have a BA from BYU. Tony has been a competitive swimmer since age nine, and I have danced my whole life, professionally and for fun. I have been teaching yoga and fitness for 31 years and know my stuff. We are motivated by a drive to provide a place where everyone feels welcome, safe, and accepted. We talked about owning a small fitness business for eighteen years before we did it. Saratoga Springs, Utah, called to us with its vibrant, friendly, growing community. We are so inspired by the closeness of everyone. Because our focus is NOT on body image, people feel relaxed and accepted. We cater to those who are interested in developing something deeper than just the outer self.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our biggest accomplishment is the community we've built. Every day we hear people say how much they appreciate our staff, the other members who get to know them, and the fabulous teachers who are the best in Utah, if not the world. We have members who have moved away and then moved back for us. Others have not moved away because of us. There is just a feeling of joy and non-judgment here.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about owning a small business is the exhaustive hours. Day in and day out, we are involved in every aspect of the business. We don't just turn things over to staff that doesn't care. We take pride in and exert a lot of energy and time to get to know the needs of the members.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Your goal has to be bigger than money. Figure out what makes your community a better place and do that. Charge what you need to towards that goal but don't get greedy. People don't like greed, and greed saps the joy from your business.
- Be different than the big box stores where a customer is just a number. Make a difference in the lives of people by getting personal. "It's not personal, it's just business," is what is wrong with the world today. Get personal.
- Be prepared to put in 16-hour days on the regular. And if you can help it, don't complain too much.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://yogavega.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogavega/
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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