Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Haroutunian, Tara Barnett.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Jessica, Tara. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
The Strive story began about 5 years ago when Jessica opened up her first fitness studio, Barre-Belle Fitness in 2011. ‘I wanted a home away from home feel. A place where women could work out, feel great, motivate each other, and develop new friendships within our community.’ Having more than 20 years of experience in the fitness industry, Jessica succeeded in building such a place for her staff and members. ‘BBF grew very quickly. We tripled membership and staff in the first year and we had to move to a larger space.’
Tara was one of the first members to join and quickly became a ‘barre addict,’ achieving a total body transformation. Tara inspired other members and proved that when you show up and do the work you can and will reach your goals. “I loved having Tara in my classes, her “go hard or go home” attitude and break out dance moves during class made it that much more enjoyable teaching.”
Jessica sold BBF in 2016, but remained close to Tara – meeting up twice a week for walks around the neighborhood. It was on those walks that Tara expressed her interest in becoming certified for Pound Fit. She would attend classes at a studio where her family vacations every summer and fell in love with the workouts. ‘I encouraged her to do it, knowing that she would be a natural fitness instructor. We talked about missing the “family feel” that we once had at Barre-Belle Fitness.’
Not long after, Jessica was presented with an opportunity to open a new studio in Whitinsville next to the Crafty Nest. ‘Whitinsville is growing rapidly with new restaurants and shops. The timing was right to Bring Barre and other unique fitness programs like Pound to the area. I immediately reached out to Tara to partner with me on this new venture.’
Strive opened in September of this year.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The most important thing in owning a small business is to surround yourself with positive people that want and see the same vision as you do. Having a healthy balance with family, work and play is also key to running a successful business. The hours are long and it requires drive and commitment, Starting Strive was easier the second time around because of what we learned. It’s a journey!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Strive – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Strive Fitness is founded on the love of fitness and community. Strive programs are for all levels and for those that live for the “positive vibe” that only group exercise can provide. Our number one goal is to help our members thrive in their fitness journey safely and effectively, while providing them tools to live a healthy lifestyle.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Our plans for the future is to grow within the community and help change lives for the better.
Pricing:
- 5 classes pack for 75.00
- 11 class pack for 150.00
- Strive Elite Membership $89.00
Contact Info:
- Address: 116 Church Street
Whitinsville, Ma 01588 - Website: www.vagaro.com/strive
- Phone: 7747661009
- Email: strivefitstudio@outlook.com
- Instagram: @strivefitstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strivefitstudio/
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
