Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica James.
Hi Erica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started teaching fitness classes in 2017. I was working a full time job and quickly realized the time I was spending teaching classes on the side was my favorite part of the day. In 2019 I took the leap of faith in quitting my full time job and opening The Booty Shop! I wanted to create an environment that was more than just fitness. I wanted it to be a social place where women wanted to spend their time. I realized if I just combined the two things I love (working out and having a drink with friends) then I’d probably be able to create that type of environment. From there, the “fitness bar” concept was born! Now the Booty Shop has been open for almost 6 years. In that time we’ve been able to purchase, renovate and move into our new building and we are working on expanding to our second location this summer!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
In the beginning, it was a challenge few do secure funding and a location for a concept that was brand new. Not a lot of people beloved in combining two elements that typically didn’t go together (exercise and alcohol). Not to mentioned they thought it would be limiting to only focus on a female demographic. The second challenge was with growth. We started out leasing a place downtown greenville. With the rising costs of commercial leases on Main Street I knew I’d need to save to purchase our own building if I wanted to feel secure and stable long term. Luckily that happened! We moved into our new building that I own late last summer.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Booty Shop. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We are a female focused fitness studio that is also a bar! We offer five types of workout classes (HIIT, strength,yoga,barre,dance cardio) and we give you a complimentary mimosa or coffee after class! This “fitness bar” concept offers an inclusive place to exercise and be social!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I used to be a big self help book reader on the beginning days of becoming an entrepreneur. Now I find that unwinding with something more light hearted like the Giggly Squad podcast helps me stay relevant with my clientele and keep my finger on the pulse of what’s trending!
Pricing:
- We offer unlimited memberships as well as class packs
- All pricing can be found and booked in the Booty Shop app!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bootyshopfitness.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bootyshopfitness?igsh=MTNtcm50M3Rmd3FhMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
