Monica Gallacher
At Canberra Holistic Massage you can enjoy quality, specifically tailored massage treatments, in a comfortable, warm and safe environment. Here you receive sound knowledge and understanding, accurate body and postural assessments and appropriate massage treatments, as well as attention to detail and use of quality oils and liniments.
Canberra Holistic Massage is located right in the heart of the city, providing easy access for those who visit, work or study in the City or surrounding area. Health fund rebates are available and the clinic offers Remedial Massage, Sports Massage, Relaxation Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Shiatsu and Tui Na (Chinese Massage).
Starting Up a New Business
I was studying fulltime at uni and finding the workload was taxing on my relationship with my daughter. I was already running a home based massage business and I am qualified in all areas of Remedial Massage and several other modalities.
Receiving a Micro-credit Loan
I am using the loan to purchase 2 items: an A-Frame sign and an electronic massage table. The A-Frame will help significantly with street presence, letting people know that my business exists, where I am located and when I am open for trade. I think A-Frame signage is invaluable for a small business. It is one of the best ways of telling people "I am here!” The loan is helping me advertise publicly, and create a much more professional service than I have otherwise been able to offer.
The electronic massage table is a bit of a dream. Having worked on a folding massage table for nearly a decade, to have a stable, purpose built table which raises and lowers via a pedal, has all the accessories for client support such as face cradle, arms rests. The ability to raise or lower to appropriate heights while the client is on the table also means I can avoid back injuries to myself, and also, makes it easier for other therapists who may use the space to adjust to their height requirements without asking the client to move off the table. The table itself will also, just by aesthetic, give a much more professional look and feel to my business. It is a good investment for my business future. The Brilliant Idea Program
I have gained information on marketing, professionalism, and also MYOB information to improve my bookkeeping skills. I am hoping to further utilise Lighthouse for marketing and guidance as my business grows.
Top Tips
Have a clear picture of your business - what you can afford to set up and what you need help with. Gain experience in the area you want to expand into, so you know what is essential for starting your own business. Observe others in your industry and learn from their successes and mistakes. Be committed and focused to the business. Be patient - it takes time to gain clients. Think about the most important tools you need for your business that you can't afford to purchase yourself. Think about what will make your business more professional, more accessible to the public, and what will sustain your business in the long run.
CANBERRA HOLISTIC MASSAGE
T: 02 6247 7606
M: 0401 947 601
www.canberraholisticmassage.com
monica [at] canberraholisticmassage [dot] com
Posted June 2010
