Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Tisdale.
Hi Rachel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started Axis Aerial Arts 11 years ago as a way to connect and share fun workouts with others! I was not a fan of the gym so I started pole/aerial and fell in love with my new found hobby! My husband Luke encouraged me to open the studio even though I didn’t know anything about being a business owner but I had a great support system and gained the knowledge needed to succeed. Axis created a community for all body types and people to find fitness that supports health but also an artistic outlet. Students become immersed in something that challenges their physical and mental state in the best way. I love owning Axis but love the people I’ve met through Axis even more!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Axis has been a gift that continues to challenge my abilities. The last 11 years have forced growth in every way through building our own space, covid closures and overall economy fluctuations. I’ve embraced pivoting to find the right path forward no matter the hurdle. I’ve learned to never stay stagnant in business. When the studio first opened, I targeted adults. As a new inexperienced business owner, I quickly recognized I needed to listen to my clients and absorb their wants or needs. Students encouraged me to open up for all ages so I developed our youth program. Next, I launched Axis Performing Arts giving well trained students an ability to become a professional aerialist. Each time I added a new aspect to the studio, I had to grow my capabilities to ensure a positive outcome.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Axis Aerial Arts was created as a nod to all things Cirque. I had a background in gymnastics, contortion and participated in multiple performing arts groups prior to starting Axis. My goal in opening the studio was simply to share the joy of pole and aerial. Not everyone will be drawn to the artistic physical outlet but those who are will completely immerse themselves! It is very addicting in the best way. I am most proud of how our studio can take truly anyone with any ability and have them upside down, spinning, stretching and flying safely in no time! I am so thankful for our dedicated team of instructors including my lead instructor/manager, Brandi Brinser. All of our staff has made owning Axis such a joy.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Axis continues to teach me many lessons but mostly patience and perseverance. In creating a business I had to watch how new ideas worked and where they failed. I saw what aspects of the company did well and then mapped out how to do it better instead of giving up when it was hard. I see people with ideas all around me, it’s the implementation and execution of ideas that’s the hard part. I basically learned never give up instead just shift what is not working.
Pricing:
- 1x a week $85 a month- 2x a week $160 a month
- $160 summer camps/holiday camps
- $30 drop in class
- $75 an hour privates
- $225 starting price for aerial parties
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AxisAerialArts.com
- Instagram: Axis_AerialArts
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17kiVr98hj/?mibextid=wwXIfr
