Kassidy Valgardson has been a registered massage therapist and yoga instructor for close to 10 years, and recently opened her own studio, Sundaze Wellness, in Taber, Alberta.
From the start, both practices were in different buildings. But she recently brought the two together under one roof.
Massage and yoga go hand-in-hand, focusing on personal physical, mental, and spiritual care. To have both in one space allows for Valgardson to create a personal atmosphere for her clients.
“I want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable, even if they’re not familiar with yoga or massage,” says the business owner. “I see changes in people every time they come in, and I love helping and encouraging people to continue taking care of themselves.”
On top of helping her clients, Valgardson wanted to challenge and grow her career. When a building became available for rent, she took the leap and accepted the keys to make the space her own.
“I want to know what people in the community are looking for. A lady who had a stroke recently reached out and asked for chair yoga. I put together a class, and she was so thankful she cried,” she says.
Valgardson says opening has brought a rollercoaster of emotions. Branding, marketing, and designing a website was top of mind before opening her doors.
Her aunt had recommended she reach out to Community Futures Chinook to inquire about business support. Valgardson was connected with Grace Evans, who supports small business owners in polishing their brand digitally through marketing and design, and Alvaro Mendes, the business analyst with Community Futures Chinook.
“Alvaro was a key mentor who guided me through the financial and logistical aspects of starting a business, connecting me with valuable community resources and support,” says Valgardson.
From working with Grace, Valgardson opened her doors with a launched website and brand new marketing materials, including a logo.
“I was amazed at how Grace put everything together. I sent her pictures of what I was envisioning, and she was so encouraging and brought it to life,” she says. “I loved the whole experience as a new business owner.”
Valgardson has had people connect with her who are interested in starting their own business venture, and she advises they also connect with Community Futures Chinook.
“Grace has been so supportive. I did my first market after opening and she showed up. To me, that was huge,” says Valgardson.
