By Lucretia Free
Below are eight questions I asked Connie Plummer, owner of The Pilates Station. If you would like to participate, send your responses to lucretia@thevailvoice.com.
- What was the first job you ever had? The first job I received a “paycheck” from was Hardee’s during summer break while in high school. My first entrepreneurial experience was at the age of 10 selling homemade loomed potholders.
- What inspired you to start your own business? It was an evolution. I began practicing Pilates for personal reasons while working at a corporate job. With the closure of the Pilates studio I started at, I felt compelled to continue sharing the benefits of Pilates to anyone willing to try.
- What is your product or service? Personal services including Pilates, massage therapy, aesthetics (including injections), and Reiki.
- What was the biggest obstacle in starting your business? Finding reasonably priced commercial property for lease in Vail.
- What is your biggest challenge now that you are open? Not over working and finding a balance in life.
- What do you like best about owning your own business? The joy of empowering my staff who work with me as well as our clients. The freedom of independence and not feeling like just another cog in the wheel at a corporate or government job (I did both for over 30 years).
- Did you have a mentor? How important was this for you? My first Pilates master teacher. Yes, someone you can candidly talk with is vital.
- What advice would you have for someone wanting to start a small business? Follow your passion but be willing to adapt to an ever-changing environment. With thorough research, planning, tenacity and a desire to be independent you will succeed.
More information can be obtained at our website: thepilatesstation.com
