Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Katie Littlejohn, Owner of Wild Coast Wellness, located in Nanaimo, BC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Wild Coast Wellness is home to Registered Massage Therapists that are passionate about working with patients that are in their childbearing years. We offer high-quality, inclusive, evidence-based care to patients that are primarily pregnant, postnatal, in need of c-section rehabilitation, in need of breast care, and/or need help with pelvic pain & dysfunction.

Tell us about yourself

I have been an RMT since 2007 and have been fortunate to work in many supportive environments, including multidisciplinary clinics, a heli-skiing lodge, and a fishing lodge in Haida Gwaii, BC. When I was pregnant with my eldest son, my husband and I decided it would be a great idea to add an addition to our old character home and build a two-roomed massage therapy clinic.

I officially opened the doors in September 2018, and I haven't looked back. It's been an amazing experience holding space and caring for pregnant and postnatal individuals, all in my very own clinic. Last fall, I had my second baby and returned to work part-time this past spring. It's been so wonderful to be able to take my lunch break and breastfeed my baby. I'm so lucky!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I feel very proud to offer high-quality patient-centered care to a demographic of patients that is so in need of care. Bringing relief to someone that is in a lot of pain and discomfort is such a gift.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I think the biggest hurdle that most small business owners would agree on was during the beginning of the pandemic when we had to shut our doors for three months. That was really difficult to navigate with so much uncertainty.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

My husband and I both own small businesses and have two small children. We're busy, to say the least! To spend any time together, we collectively agreed that it is worth every penny to delegate those small tasks that take up so much time (bookkeeping, cleaning, etc.).

It is absolutely important to connect with other like-minded community members. Send emails, shake hands, and get the word out. Being a business owner isn't for the faint of heart, but it truly is a wonderful experience if you learn to ride the waves.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

We are currently hiring and looking for another set of skilled RMT hands that are passionate about working with pregnant/postnatal patients!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.wildcoastwellness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildCoastWellness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildcoastwellness/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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