Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Bouchillon.
Hi Aaron, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started training in martial arts at the age of 6 and from the first time I set foot on the mat I was completely hooked. My wife, Kaitlyn and I met through martial arts around 2004 and, eventually, we switched schools and began training in Jeet Kune Do. After years of training, getting married, and having two kids, we decided it was time to start a school of our own and fulfill the dream I had since childhood. So, in February of 2026 we opened Guardian Self Defense in Travelers Rest.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not entirely smooth, no. We had a hard time finding a suitable location at first. It was difficult to find a spot that was large enough for what we needed, but also affordable. After a lot of searching, we had actually found a spot in Greer and were planning to open up there. With less than 24 hours’ notice before signing the lease and receiving the keys, the landlord for that location backed out. It felt like a major defeat given the time, effort, and preparation we had already invested. After we regrouped, we started looking again in Travelers Rest and eventually found our spot. It all worked out for the best in the end. Travelers Rest is our home, and we’re excited to build something meaningful in our community.
We’ve been impressed with Guardian Self Defense, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are a martial arts school in Travelers Rest, SC that focuses on real world self defense skills. When you look around at other schools you either get a martial art system that is more for sport than it is for self defense, or you get a “self defense” system that doesn’t work in real encounters. That’s where we come in. We teach Jeet Kune Do and Wing Chun to kids, teens, and adults of all ages with a focus on developing real self defense skills that can keep you and your loved ones safe from real world threats. Our instructor has over 20 years of teaching experience and has developed a unique program that can help anyone build confidence, peace of mind, and the capability to handle themselves if attacked.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was obsessed with martial arts. As boring as it sounds, I really don’t have many interests aside from that. I honestly have few memories from before I started training because this is the one thing that I have really poured myself into.
Pricing:
- $135 per month for 2 days per week.
- $150 per month for unlimited days
- $75 for private lessons with packages available at discounted rates.
- 1 Week Free Trial with absolutely no strings attached.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://greenvilleselfdefense.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guardianselfdefense864
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17ZapPwRwJ/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuardianSD864
