By Brendan Rees
When Dannii Cross started her fitness studio business from her garage two years ago she never imagined her client base to grow so quickly.
“We started to have a problem fitting everyone in,” Ms Cross says.
She said there was one night where 30 people turned up for a 30 minute session and it was that moment she realised she needed more space.
Two months later the 27 year-old of Cranbourne North, who is a transformation specialist, secured a specialist a studio in Hallam and has between 80 and 90 clients.
The 27 year-old has now been nominated for the WFI Insurance Small Business Achiever Award, one of ten categories in the Victorian Young Achiever Awards.
Ms Cross says her business, Dannii Cross – Complete Transformations, is about achieving results through proper nutrition and training.
“We are fully booked for two out of the three programs we offer for 2018 which is super exciting.”
Ms Cross just hired a yoga instructor and says she hopes to hire a trainer this year whilst also expanding the business.
“The health and fitness industry is saturated with a lot of information that long-term isn’t effective, so we teach people how to get from A to B without dieting or having to exercise every day.”
“But aside from the actual program in itself, building a strong community with a friendly atmosphere is the most important aspect of the business to me. Everyone gets along; we are like a big family.”
Ms Cross says she also recently opened an online apparel business selling high-waisted leggings called ‘Yeah the girls apparel’.
“A key lesson I’ve learnt in business is to stay true to your values and have an idea of who your ideal client is.”
“Set short and long-term goals and have someone you can approach for help and advice.”
The Awards aim to encourage, reward and most importantly promote the positive achievements of young Victorians up to and including 29 years of age.
Finalists will be presented and Winners announced at an Awards Gala Presentation Dinner at Flemington – The Event Centre on Friday 18 May.
Category winners will each receive a $1,000 Bartercard Account, $1,000 cash and a trophy.
One of the ten category winners will be chosen as the Victorian Young Achiever of the Year and receive a $2,000 flight voucher from Jetstar and a state trophy.
