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Heather Garrigus, a client of the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2021. Fueled by her love for yoga and following the tragic loss of her brother, Garrigus set out to fulfill her dream of owning a business. With unwavering determination, she launched Heather’s Zen Den Yoga Studio in East Alton, Illinois, in memory of her brother.

Recognizing the value of professional guidance, Garrigus began collaborating with the Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE and Marti Wieland, a Certified Business Development Advisor, in June 2022. The SBDC provided assistance with financial reviews, class packages, advertisement, and marketing ideas.

“Marti, from the SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE, has been an invaluable asset in the growth of my business Heather's Zen Den Yoga Studio,” said Garrigus. “Her expert guidance and comprehensive support have played a pivotal role in navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship. From strategic counseling to the tailored meeting sessions, Marti's commitment to fostering success in the Metro East region has been evident in every interaction. The SBDC's one-stop assistance model, encompassing counseling, training, research, and advocacy, has propelled my yoga studio forward. Marti's dedication and the SBDC's approach have truly made a significant impact on the success and sustainability of my business.”

“Heather has an established business, but just needed some help making the business grow,” said Wieland.  “It has been great fun reviewing her operations, exploring and discussing options for growth, and talking through the ‘what ifs’ of possible changes. Heather has the energy and perseverance to make her business a destination for anyone interested in yoga and its benefits.”

Garrigus’ primary goal was to offer affordable yoga classes to the community. Starting with a team of four, the business has now expanded to include eight dedicated yoga instructors, including Garrigus herself. Not only does Garrigus own and operate the studio, but she also holds a part-time position with the federal government. Balancing both roles, she finds fulfillment in each, as her part-time job provides structure while yoga offers relaxation and rejuvenation.

Conveniently located at 95 Eastgate Shopping Center in East Alton, Illinois, Heather’s Zen Den Yoga Studio provides classes seven days a week, including corporate sessions for bank employees. Additionally, they maintain a presence on YouTube, offering online classes to reach a wider audience. Heather’s Zen Den Yoga Studio welcomes inquiries via phone at 618-373-9099 or email at heatherszenden21@gmail.com. Interested individuals can also connect with the studio on Facebook.

The SBDC  for the Metro East assists entrepreneurs like Heather’s Zen Den Yoga Studio as well as existing business owners operating in the nine-county Metro East region of Calhoun, Jersey, Madison, Bond, Clinton, St. Clair, Washington, Monroe and Randolph. The Center enhances the region’s economic interests by providing one-stop assistance to individuals by means of counseling, training, research and advocacy for new ventures and existing small businesses.

SBDCs in Illinois are funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement among the U.S. Small Business Administration, Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville as a service to the community. To learn how these no-cost services may help your business venture, contact the Metro East SBDC at (618) 650-2929 or sbdcedw@gmail.com.

Photo: Heather Garrigus of Heather’s Zen Den Yoga Studio