Background

Jenna Blair, the founder of Jenna Blair Yoga Ltd, is based in Shrewsbury. Her journey into yoga began with a desire to get more fit, exploring various activities but consistently being drawn back to yoga due to its profound mental and physical benefits.

Yoga eventually became Jenna’s passion and a way of life, leading her to complete her Yoga teacher training with the goal of sharing the benefits of yoga with as many people as possible.

Jenna (pictured left) launched her yoga business at the beginning of 2020, establishing a practice in a local church hall. Her classes quickly became popular, drawing packed sessions. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 brought everything to a standstill.

As a self-employed individual with a new business, Jenna – like many others at the time – was not entitled to any financial support, resulting in a total loss of income overnight.

To navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, Jenna began to offer classes via Zoom and later adapted to holding socially distanced classes when lockdown rules were eased.

However, throughout the darkest days of COVID-19, Jenna dreamed of having her own yoga studio.

On one of her lockdown walks, she discovered a dilapidated building that she believed had potential as a yoga studio. With the help of her brother-in-law who was a builder, she saw the possibilities and eventually negotiated a lease with the owner.

In 2021, Jenna’s dream came true as she opened her own yoga studio with holistic treatment rooms, offering 25 regular classes a week. Her business has since grown from strength to strength, now working with over 50 freelancers offering various holistic treatments.

What support did the Shropshire Growth Hub provide?

The Shropshire Growth Hub played a crucial role in Jenna’s journey. Initially mentioned to her when she was thinking about launching her business, the Shropshire Growth Hub provided vital support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Anna and Emma from the Growth Hub served as a sounding board, offering advice and support. They helped Jenna to access a substantial Start-up Grant and a Small Equipment Grant, which helped refurbish and furnish her studio.

Additionally, she accessed support from Business Boost 360, receiving mentorship in business planning and navigating the process of renting commercial premises.

What are the future plans for your business?

Jenna is now looking to access a grant from the West Midlands SME Grant programme to extend her business and take on additional premises next door.

She has also signed a 15-year lease, putting down long-term roots to ensure Jenna Blair Yoga Ltd’s future growth.

Jenna also runs a not-for-profit business that will soon be awarded charity status. The aim of the charity is to provide yoga, art and other sessions that will promote well-being for individuals facing barriers.  Jenna has already received support for this from a range of organisations and partners including the Arts Council.

What impact has the Shropshire Growth Hub had on your business?

“It is all in Anna and Emma’s approach. They are tremendous listeners. They are supportive, kind and approachable but can also provide practical solutions, guidance and advice. They have truly supported the growth of my business.”

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The Shropshire Growth Hub provides information on support for businesses in the Shropshire Local Authority area. It offers advice on grants, loans, and assistance for companies of any size or sector, from start-ups to established enterprises.

CAN WE HELP YOU? EMAIL US TODAY ON growthhub@shropshire.gov.uk