Read how Suzette Sweatt, founder of Sweattboxx, is adapting during these challenging times
With Covid-19 affecting thousands of small businesses nationwide, we decided to check up on entrepreneurs to see how they are adapting to these sudden changes. We interviewed Suzette, founder of Sweattboxx, to hear her story and get some advice/inspiration during these challenging times.
“DO NOT PANIC. Grab a notebook and start a list. What are your immediate needs, what resources are available for your business, and what variables can you control and cannot control. Keep your head up” – Suzette Sweatt
Website: https://sweattboxxwellness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweattboxxwc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweattboxxwellnesscenter/
What is the story behind Sweattboxx?
We started almost 7 years ago after working out, my husband and I. I had enlisted the help of a trainer, and the more I began to learn about this, it felt really good. I liked seeing the change, and I liked knowing that I can change my body and how I felt. After people started attending Sweattbox, just seeing their happiness and how they felt great about themselves, I said to myself, "I really like this!" I liked this so much that I quit my job of 10 years which was interesting because I made great money, but I walked away from it to pursue wellness. We started helping ourselves and then helping others.
How has the coronavirus impacted your business?
“It’s like stubbing your toe on the bed frame, we had just relocated four days before they issued the stay at home order.”
One of the biggest challenges Sweattboxx faced was being unable to bring in clients due to quarantine orders. Sweattboxx had to find alternative ways to keep in touch with clients and bring some revenue in. In order to overcome this challenge, Suzette immediately turned to virtual classes. With the support of her clients, Sweattboxx continues to bring in some revenue and continues to provide her services without a facility.
How did SOURCE help your business?
“We qualified for the seed grant which helped us buy the equipment needed to start our kids program.”
Thanks to the generous support of the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, SOURCE River West is able to offer small business grants to local entrepreneurs. With this funding Sweattboxx offers a new program for kids allowing it to expand its services to a larger audience.
Any advice that you would give to other small businesses facing similar problems?
“DO NOT PANIC. Grab a notebook and start a list. What are your immediate needs, what resources are available for your business, and what variables can you control and cannot control. Keep your head up”
A huge thank you to Suzette for sharing her story with us at SOURCE River West. If you would like to learn more about Sweattboxx, be sure to check out their website. You can support her business at https://www.kiva.org/lend/1961042.
Also be sure to check out SOURCE River West COVID-19 resources at: http://www.sourcerw.org/resources