I had the pleasure of speaking with Mel Hagger, from 'Align & Move.'
Mel's business offers a range of massage services, including deep tissue, relaxation, pregnancy, and sports massage, along with the fantastic addition of Reformer Pilates. Mel believes in the power of combining Pilates and Massage to provide a balanced and transformative experience for her clients. So, let's dive in and learn more about Mel's business journey and her vision for its future.
Tell us about your business:
Align & Move is a Remedial Massage Therapy business where I offer a range of massage services including deep tissue, relaxation, pregnancy, and sports massage. Early on I added Reformer Pilates to my business which has become the ‘Move’ component of the business. It's been a fantastic addition and has really brought a great balance to my services. I find that combining Pilates and Massage works really well for my clients.
What has your business journey looked like so far:
I have always had a passion for helping others, which led me to volunteer at the local football club as a trainer. One day, I was asked to give rub downs and massages to the players, but I was hesitant. I only had basic knowledge of muscles, and I didn't want to cause any harm. That's when I decided to take a one-day introductory massage course to learn more.
As I delved deeper into the world of massage, I realised that I wanted to expand my knowledge and skills further sol, I enrolled in a Remedial Massage Certification program and also completed additional courses in pregnancy massage and human anatomy. It was a lot of hard work, but I was determined to become the best therapist I could be.
While still working four days a week, I started my small business from home, offering massage services in the evenings. It was a challenging juggling act, and I soon realised that I needed to make a change. After 12 years at my job, I knew it was time for a new adventure. That's when Align & Move was born.
In July 2023, I opened my own clinic and studio, and it has been an incredible journey ever since. I have been overwhelmed by the support I have received from my clients and the community. It's been a dream come true, and I can't wait to see what the next 12 months have in store for Align & Move.
But I'm not stopping there! I am constantly seeking ways to expand and improve my services. I am currently studying to bring even more offerings to my business, so stay tuned for some exciting updates in March/April 2024. I am committed to providing the best care and support to my clients, and I can't wait to share these new services with you.
What is the biggest lesson you have learnt since starting your business and is there anything you’d do differently.
Starting my own business has been a huge learning experience. If I had to do it all over again, one thing I would do differently is start sooner!
Looking back, I realise that fear held me back for far too long. I was scared to take that leap of faith and pursue my passion. But now I know that fear shouldn't stop you from doing something you love. It's okay to be afraid, but it's even more important to push through that fear and go after your dreams.
What are you most proud of within your business:
I am most proud that I was able to take the leap to start my business. It was a big decision, but one I am glad I was finally able to make because it has been an incredible journey so far.
Another thing that makes me proud is the trust that my clients have in me. It's such an honour to have people entrust me with their well-being and to provide them with a service that can make a positive impact on their lives. Building that trust and seeing the results of my work is truly rewarding.
Where do you see your business in the next 5 years:
In the next five years, I envision my business expanding into different regions, offering my Pilates services for events and schools. I also plan to broaden my massage offerings by introducing new services. While I want to remain a sole operator, I am excited about the potential for growth and the opportunity to reach more people with my services.
Finally, what advice would you give to other start-up businesses:
My advice to other start-up businesses is to go for it! Don't sit back and just wish or dream. Take that leap of faith and give it your all. I don't believe in failure; I believe in trying and learning from the experience.
Enjoying learning more about Align & Move, head over to our Behind the Brand blog section to read about how I came to work with Mel and how together we built a brand for her business.
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