Ashley Aikens - Studio Barre ALX
How/what did you start your business?
My business was already established and I was a regular member and loved the culture, community and the original owner Angela. I started doing some marketing/digital work for her and then started working the front desk part time just to spend more time with the community I loved so much. It was only a natural progression that I started acting as operations and marketing manager then decided to partner.
What inspires you?
Beyonce. Not even kidding, that lady makes me proud to be a black woman and makes me want to work hard to provide the best. It’s not just her but others like her. When I see other badass women doing what they love and doing it well, it kind of puts a little extra gas in your tank to keep on going.
What motivates you?
Me. I love me, but I want to always work toward becoming a better version of myself. I want to be helpful and provide joy for those that come in contact with me. So to do that I have to always be working to make myself better.
What are you most proud of?
I am really proud of how I have handled things through this difficult time (pandemic). When it felt like things were literally crumbling around me (and they were) I never lost track of who I was and what I wanted. I love being a business owner and I love my community and staff. I would literally do anything for my team so I figured out how to make the best of this situation (of course with the help of my business partner Michaela).
Tell us something that folks wouldn't know about you?
My friends know this for sure, but I LOVE the Golden Girls. I watch it almost daily. It is a show I watched with my mother as a child and brings me comfort when things feel not so nice, Also Betty White is everything!!
Tell us about a time you overcame a challenge?
Hello 2020!!! Basically this entire pandemic. Our business model was always in-person classes that married with an incredible culture. We had to learn quickly how to pivot. We started to do on demand classes and created a library of digital content for our clients to do in the comfort of their home when they want (call me director Ashley). We started doing live classes on our social platforms (Private Facebook group). I think figuring out how to satisfy clients’ needs, while making sure everyone (clients and staff) felt safe and comfortable was a big one. I learned how to build a website to reach a wider audience and figured out ways to bring items right to clients fingertips with online sales through various social media channels.
How do you overcome adversity?
You just have to stay focused on your goals. Keep taking action, never stop growing and always try to pivot and learn as you go.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start their own business?
Remember that everything is figureoutable (I know that's not an actual word). There will be challenges along the way for sure and entrepreneurship is not not a one size fits all kind of thing, So always remember when you feel stuck, there is an answer, because everything is figureoutable. Also this one has been big for me, share your vision with others. People are nice and want to help. When you allow them, they will.