Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jasmine Amiker. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Jasmine thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Folks often look at a successful business and imagine it was an overnight success, but from what we’ve seen this is often far from the truth. We’d love to hear your scaling up story – walk us through how you grew over time – what were some of the big things you had to do to grow and what was that scaling up journey like?
In early 2020, the world changed overnight. Businesses across the globe faced an uncertain future due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Among those affected was my business The Milan Method, an innovative program known for training students for competitions and hosting classes around Atlanta. Originally, The Milan Method thrived on the vibrancy of in-person events, drawing crowds and enthusiasts eager to explore the art of aerial performance. However, as the pandemic imposed its harsh realities, the usual studio sessions and gatherings were no longer feasible. But instead of seeing this as an insurmountable setback, I viewed it as a unique opportunity. As the founder, I pivoted the business model swiftly, shifting from paid in-person classes to hosting free online sessions. This strategy wasn’t just about maintaining visibility; it was about building and nurturing a community during isolation. These classes provided a much-needed outlet for people to stay active and connected with others, despite the physical barriers imposed by global lockdowns. The response was overwhelming. Participants from all walks of life joined the online sessions, eager to break the monotony of their daily routines and learn something new. Many, moved by the sense of community and the quality of teaching, promised to enroll in physical classes once it was safe to do so. This feedback was not just encouraging; it was a testament to the strength and appeal of The Milan Method.
By mid-2021, as the world cautiously edged back towards normalcy, I realized that The Milan Method had outgrown its initial business model. The promise of our virtual attendees to transition to in-person classes materialized sooner than anticipated. Suddenly, we were facing a delightful new challenge: there were more students than available hours in the studios we were renting. In July 2021, the decision to expand became unavoidable. By August, the perfect space was found, and by September, the lease was signed. Opening the doors in December 2021, The Milan Method transformed from a nomadic existence into a permanent home—a sanctuary for the pole and aerial community.
The journey was not without its hurdles. Some people viewed this growth with skepticism and doubt. Some felt threatened, perhaps, by the potential competition. Their reactions ranged from cold disbelief to outright opposition. However, instead of bowing to the pressure, I used it as fuel to propel The Milan Method further. I was determined to carve out a distinct identity and prove the skeptics wrong. Today, The Milan Method is not just a studio; it’s a landmark. Known for its vibrant green walls, it has become a beacon in the pole community, recognizable and revered. Aerial artists, both novice and experienced, know that once they see those green walls, they’ve arrived at a place where artistry, community, and innovation converge. Balancing life as an event planner and studio owner, I’ve managed to keep the essence of The Milan Method alive and thriving. It stands as a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the unyielding spirit of the artistic community in Atlanta.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m Jasmine Amiker, the proud founder and owner of The Milan Method Aerial & Dance Fitness Studio and The A-Team Event Rents & Decor. My journey in both the aerial fitness and event planning industries reflects my dedication to empowering others and creating unforgettable experiences.
Since falling in love with aerial fitness in 2013, what started as a personal passion quickly evolved into a flourishing business. At The Milan Method, we specialize in aerial and dance fitness geared towards helping women find liberation through their workouts. Our studio is more than just a place to exercise; it’s a community where women can grow, find strength, and embrace freedom through movement.
Parallel to my adventure in fitness, I’ve nurtured a lifelong passion for event planning. With The A-Team, we provide full-service event management, assisting clients from the conceptual phase all the way through to execution. Our goal is to craft seamless and spectacular events that leave lasting memories, handling every detail with care and professionalism.
I take great pride in bringing people together, whether it’s through mastering a new pose in the studio or celebrating a milestone event. Both of my ventures focus on creating joy and building community, underlining my belief in the power of connection and the importance of life’s celebratory moments.
Operating both The Milan Method and The A-Team allows me to stay true to my dual passions—enhancing physical well-being through aerial arts and orchestrating exquisite events. These roles feed my soul and affirm that I am on the right path, constantly reminding me of the joy and fulfillment that come from making people happy.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
There are a few factors that I feel have helped me build my reputation in both markets:
Community Focus: I have always prioritized creating a strong sense of community. This focus on fostering a supportive environment not only in my studio but also in every event, helps clients and members feel valued and connected. This approach has led to strong word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business, which are invaluable in building a positive reputation.
Quality and Innovation: Staying committed to high-quality service and continuously seeking innovative ways to meet client needs has helped me stand out in both markets. In the fitness studio, this means offering unique, well-structured classes that cater to the specific needs of her clients. In event planning, it involves creating personalized and memorable experiences that exceed client expectations.
Passion and Authenticity: My genuine love for both aerial fitness and event planning shines through in my interactions and is infectious. My enthusiasm motivates my team and inspires my clients, making my businesses not just service providers but passion-driven entities that clients are drawn to and want to support.
Visibility and Branding: Effectively marketing my businesses and maintaining a visible online and community presence have been key. Through social media, community events, and collaborations, I have strategically positioned my brands in the public eye as leaders in their respective fields.
Reliability and Integrity: Consistently being reliable and operating with integrity has earned me a reputation for trustworthiness. This is crucial in industries where clients need to rely on you for their physical well-being and for executing one of the most important days of their lives.
Feedback and Adaptability: Listening to client feedback and being adaptable to their needs has allowed me to refine my services and address any areas for improvement. This not only enhances client satisfaction but also demonstrates my commitment to excellence.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
To manage a team effectively and maintain high morale, prioritize clear and open communication, recognize and reward achievements regularly, offer professional growth opportunities, and foster a supportive, positive work environment. Also, providing flexible work options and promoting work-life balance can significantly enhance team satisfaction and morale.
Contact Info:
- Website: milanmethodfit.com
- Instagram: @themilanmethod @theateamatlevents