Today we’d like to introduce you to Joy D’Albora.
Joy, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I first discovered yoga about 15 years ago. I quickly realized this was something I knew would be a major part of my life. I would dream about running my own yoga/wellness center for years. I spent the next decade working for small businesses and co-running one of my own. Eventually the opportunity came to where I could finally open up my first brick and mortar and, of course, I decided to make it a yoga and wellness center.
We have been open for 4 years and I have learned so much! We have evolved into a supportive, vibrant community and I feel so blessed every time I step foot inside the studio. I have an amazing team of teachers, front desk help and management.
Yoga inherently is a relaxing and soothing practice. Like any business, it is a constant work in progress. I have a great appreciation and admiration for entrepreneurs and small business owners. It is a daily challenge. But, in the end, I believe that the studio we have carved out in our neighborhood brings light and happiness to the world…. something we all need. So, while it is a business, it also feels like a community service.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Well, this was my first brick and mortar and my first ever studio. I had no idea what I was doing when I first opened. Fortunately, I had a lot of experience creating systems and organizing offices, but even to this day, I am constantly seeing what I could do to make something better. There are lots of learning opportunities when running your own business. In the beginning it felt so daunting to get people to come! Even now, we have our ups and downs. I have gotten better about riding the waves and fortunately I have a few trusted confidants to support me through the highs and lows.
In terms of struggles along the way, I had a 15-month old daughter when we first opened and about 3 years in, I had another baby. So, I have had to run the business from my home most of the time and relinquish a lot of responsibility to my team. I am blessed that I am able to be with my daughters, but it feels like a bit of chaos and a minor miracle each day to accomplish all the daily demands of the business.
YOGA NoHo – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Yoga NoHo was founded on the principle of community. We wanted to carve out a little haven in our busy town where people could gather and relate to one another. The yoga you will find here is based on sustainability. We strive to provide safe, thorough workouts that heal and strengthen. We are the opposite of trendy gym-like workouts. We stay true the roots, offering a space where the individual is respected in both their limitations and abilities.
We offer Vinyasa Flow, Hatha and Restorative Yoga. Our wellness team consists of two acupuncturists, a chiropractor and hypnotherapist.
I am most proud of the dedication and support of our community. People will actually clap for each other in class if they land their first headstand. It is such a friendly atmosphere. I have seen profound healing and transformation take place amongst our students.
We are unique in our non-competitive, whole-person approach to fitness and wellness. Our space is also home to teacher trainings, various workshops and rehearsal space.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
For me, success can be defined as:
- The ability to run a business that also gives me the freedom to raise my family
2. The health and well-being that students experience because of their participation at our studio
3. Respect
4. Money in the bank
5. Longevity
6. Being a positive influence on the community
7. The happiness of the people who work at the studio
Pricing:
- All new students can try out 2 weeks of unlimited yoga for $30
Contact Info:
- Address: 5257 Vineland Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
- Website: www.yoganoho.com
- Phone: 818-761-1705
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: yoga_noho
- Facebook: YOGA NoHo
- Yelp: YOGA NoHo
Image Credit: Angel Castellanos and Ian Corson
Sara M.
March 27, 2017 at 21:38
I adore YOGA NoHo. It has been my home for yoga for two years and will be for as long as I am still practicing!
Joy
March 28, 2017 at 04:49
Thank you, Sara! We adore having you in our community!
Amy
March 28, 2017 at 05:52
I began with the studio when they first began and now four years later I’m still here. All the classes and wellness staff has what meets my needs as my practice changes. Tonight i participated in the hypnotic wellness series of four and we are all opening up to new thoughts. Thank you joy.