What a difference a year makes!
March 16 was the day we officially opened the doors to our fifth studio location – The Hot Room Bloomington. How ironic that exactly one year ago, we entered into what would be the most challenging year to date for our small business. We closed the doors to 3 studios, paused on new studio construction build–outs, and entered into a new chapter with a lot of unknowns.
That decision one year ago still brings me to tears because these studios are not only our livelihood but the livelihood for over 100 staff members and thousands of lives within our community. This practice and community have transformed so many lives and for many of you, this practice has even saved your life. But as we continued to learn more about COVID 19, it was clear that we had to shift our focus to helping those who are most vulnerable and to contain the spread of the virus.
There were a lot of unknowns, but we knew with full clarity that we would do anything possible to stay connected with our hot room community and support you with your mental and physical health. I will never forget sitting with our leadership team at Bazbeaux until the late hours thinking of ALL the ways that we would continue to serve our community.
From weekly Camp Gratitude programming, the launch of thehotroomnow.com, outdoor classes, THR’s Got Talent (remember that one?!), cooking classes, and the list goes on. We pivoted our business overnight and we all took on the roles needed to keep our business alive. Our team continued to step up in a BIG way when we were faced with more devastating news about Laura Burdick’s fatal car accident. This team has worked so hard to keep our community and business alive and I thank you for all that you have done and continue to do.
Despite all the challenges that were thrown our way, we came out more deeply connected to each other and for that, I say thank you. There are many small businesses, including yoga studios who are no longer operating and closed due to the pandemic. Whether it’s staying on your memberships, the purchase of a yoga mat, posting a google review, sharing a social media post, or sending our team texts and messages, all of this has helped us get to where we are now. Your support, friendship, and positive attitude are something that I will never forget and be forever grateful for.
We have learned a lot as a small business navigating through this global pandemic. Through the ups and downs, we have become more passionate than ever about the work we do and the communities that we support. We will continue to work hard for you so that you can be healthy, happy and live your best life. Thank you for your continued support.
With gratitude,
Hye Jin and Ash
