We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alexandra Papavramidi. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alexandra below.

Alexandra, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

I wish I had started my online Pilates business back in 2016 when I left my Pilates studio in France to move to Quebec for my husband’s career. At that time, there were limited online workout options, and I had to leave behind dedicated students without the convenience of platforms like Zoom. Despite the challenges with work visas and returning to a job I disliked, I eventually started my business in 2021 after my maternity leave, realizing the potential during the pandemic when Pilates studios were closing and transitioning to online platforms. Looking back, I wish I had embraced the online shift sooner, potentially starting during the pandemic when demand was high.

Alexandra, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Alexandra, the CEO and Founder of LOVJOY Pilates, and I’m deeply passionate about wellness, particularly in helping women and busy moms regain strength and vitality. My journey into the Pilates industry began over a decade ago when I became certified in teaching Pilates, inspired by the transformative impact it had on my own postpartum recovery and overall well-being.

At LOVJOY Pilates, we offer personalized online Pilates programs specifically designed for women, with a focus on postpartum wellness, pelvic floor strength, and overall flexibility. Our services include a combination of live classes and a library of prerecorded workouts, complemented by holistic offerings from wellness coaches.

One of the key problems we solve for our clients is the challenge of balancing self-care and fitness with busy lifestyles. Many women, especially moms, struggle to find time for themselves amidst their numerous responsibilities. Our approach is tailored to fit seamlessly into their lives, providing flexible and accessible Pilates programs that can be done from the comfort of home.

What sets us apart is our holistic approach to wellness, addressing not just physical fitness but also mental and emotional well-being. We believe in empowering women to prioritize their health and self-care, regardless of their age, shape, or life stage. Our programs are designed to be inclusive, welcoming women of all backgrounds and fitness levels.

I’m most proud of the positive impact we’ve had on our clients’ lives. From helping women regain confidence in their bodies to alleviating postpartum discomfort and improving overall wellness, seeing the transformation and hearing their success stories is incredibly rewarding.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that LOVJOY Pilates is more than just a fitness app – it’s a community of support, encouragement, and empowerment. Whether you’re a new mom looking to rebuild strength or a busy professional seeking balance, we’re here to help you on your wellness journey.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One pivotal moment in my journey that exemplifies resilience was during my participation in the Ellevate preaccelerator cohort in summer 2023. Amongst a cohort of inspiring women who have become dear friends, I had high hopes and the support of coaches who believed in my potential to win the 10k prize.

However, during the final pitch event, I faced unexpected challenges. As the first presenter, I encountered technical difficulties with my slides, disrupting my flow and confidence. The judges’ questions were tough, probing into crucial aspects of my business model. Despite these setbacks and the disappointment of not winning, I learned valuable lessons in adaptability, perseverance, and the importance of preparation.

What made this experience even more challenging was that two of my fellow cohort members quit along the way. To make it to the DEMO final day event, I had to drive from Quebec to Montreal with my husband and all the kids, drop them off with friends, attend the event, pick them up, and drive back to Quebec, all in a single day because the event was on a weekday and the kids had school the next day. It was a hectic and exhausting day, but I remained committed and determined not to give up.

Through resilience and determination, I have bounced back from that experience, implementing the insights gained from the program to enhance my business strategies. Today, LOVJOY Pilates is thriving, making meaningful profits, and continuing to empower women on their wellness journeys.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building an audience on social media was initially a daunting task for me, as I was shy and hesitant to put myself out there. However, I took the plunge and started sharing more of my personal journey on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn, focusing on relatable stories that resonated with fellow moms.

I also leveraged social media to promote the programs and services I wanted to offer, aiming to gather positive reviews and build trust with my audience. While these promotional posts were initially challenging, I learned to embrace them and eventually found joy in sharing my experiences and expertise.

One remarkable experience that stands out is when a mom from Dubai discovered me through my Instagram stories and ended up purchasing private classes. It was incredible to connect with someone from across the world and bridge the time zone difference to provide personalized sessions. This moment highlighted the power of social media in reaching a global audience and building meaningful connections.

For those just starting to build their social media presence, my advice is to be authentic and consistent. Share genuine stories, engage with your audience, and showcase your expertise in a way that resonates with your target audience. Don’t be afraid to show your face and share your journey, as authenticity and relatability are key to building trust and attracting loyal followers.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lovjoypilates.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovjoy_pilates/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovjoypilates/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrapapavramides/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lovjoypilates

Image Credits
Arielle Wizman