This story is about…
Female entrepreneur: Gemma Ford
Company: Love Yoga Online
Industry: Health & Wellness
Location: UK
She started her business because: of her passion for yoga and the internet.
Age range: 20s
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business…
I am a yoga teacher, I live by the sea in Cornwall and my business is Love Yoga Online; an online yoga community and video resource for anyone interested in being healthy and happy.
What was your main motivation behind starting your business?
My main motivation behind starting my business was to combine my interest in the internet, with all the wonders of modern communication, and my passion for yoga. Creating a supportive and easily accessible online community and resource allows me to make the teachings of yoga, and many other healthy tips and ideas from a whole range of inspiring people, available to all on the web!
What’s a day in the life of you like?
My day usually starts with teaching a yoga class, or doing my own practice, followed by a hearty breakfast of porridge or home made Bircher Muesli, which I am obsessed with at the moment! I then sit down to plan my day, prioritise my tasks and remind myself to stay in alignment with my dreams by taking the right actions. The events of the day can range from more yoga classes, business meetings, planning yoga video shoots, marketing and many more – no two days are ever the same. Again the day generally ends with teaching an evening yoga class and taking some time to rest and relax with my beloved cats before bed.
What challenges have you faced?
I have faced challenges with funding, video production, time management, legal processes, financial processes, motivation when working alone from home most of the time – and many more I’m sure!
How have you overcome the challenges?
I have overcome them by continuing to look for solutions and trying all sorts of ways to get around them until one works. Also I have looked into what it is in me that is blocking that particular area of my business, where am I not seeing the bigger picture or being open to the opportunities.
What is your biggest achievement so far?
My biggest achievement so far is to get where I am today; from a simple idea I have worked with many others to create an inspirational yoga website of which I am hugely proud.
How have you raised the awareness of your business?
I mainly used PR, social media, events, email campaigns and networking to raise awareness for my business.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I have a great network of support, friends and family, as well as business support and mentoring.
Who inspires you?
All my parents (I have four!), my soon to be husband Charlie, my whole family, my cats inspire me to love completely. My yoga teachers Shiva Rea, Elena Brower, Bridget Woods Kramer and Swami Sivananda. My heros and coaches my Nana, Hildie Dunn, Laurie Gerber, Lauren Zander and Debbie Ford – and there are so many more….
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
I would recommend devoting time and money to building and working on yourself as well as your business; your business is a reflection of how clear and aligned you are internally.
What’s your favourite quote?
“Be the change you wish to see in the world”
{Gandhi}
Do you have a business philosophy?
Yes – my philosophy in business is to strive to make a positive impact in all interactions
What’s your goal for the next year?
My goal for the next year is to get the word out about the Love Yoga Online community and welcome new members to join us, meet our teachers and develop their understanding of yoga, being healthy and happy.
Get in touch…
Website: www.loveyogaonline.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoveYogaOnline
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/loveyogaonline
