We had the good fortune of connecting with Betsy Hunter Hughes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Betsy, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve wanted to start my own business for many years. I’ve always dreamed of having my own space and being my own boss. For years I looked at various opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships but each one would have a draw back or something that just “didn’t feel right”. I chose to be patient and be 100% sure that it was the right time, place, and opportunity for me. It had to fit the demands of my family and other factors to be right.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is Core Pilates & Health, a wellness concierge service using the merge of Pilates and Integrative Nutrition to enhance the health of those who seek it. My goal has always been to empower others through movement and lifestyle, particularly when it comes to healthy relationships with self and food. I’m excited about the brick and mortar space that I designed and built in Savannah, Ga. It acts as a refuge and sanctuary for people to get healthy and stay healthy. It is a private space for those who prefer a more private setting when moving. Getting to the point of where I am today meant keeping that goal and dream alive even when it felt far off. I had to turn down many opportunities along the way for various reasons: not the right place, not the right time, or just didn’t feel 100% right. Where I am now, there has been no doubt and the pieces of the puzzle fit easily. I think patience is a necessary tool when trying to venture out into becoming a business owner. When we jump in over our head, many times it doesn’t work out. Or when we try to force a circle into a square we end up frustrated, exhausted, and overwhelmed. My path has definitely had its challenges. When I first became certified to teach Pilates over 16 yrs ago, I got pregnant with twins. And what a beautiful blessing it was. But it was a tough pregnancy and the boys were premature after 10 weeks of bed rest required by my doctors. This, of course, set me back when pursuing a career. But again, its not always in our timeline, it’s Gods. Motherhood, came first and still does. However, I do feel that my prime is yet to come and I work hard every day to remain healthy so that when my boys are out of the house, I will have the energy and stamina to keep building my business and brand. I’d love the world to know that my story has been built with a love for what I do, a passion for helping others, and the mindset that we can be our best at any age. I do not live my life in fear but rather in empowerment to make the best choice I can in that moment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I live in Savannah, Ga which a charming, eclectic city with beautiful architecture, gorgeous trees, and artists galore. I would take them to all of my favorite local hangouts including Circa or Elizabeths on 37th for dinner, followed by a rooftop for a cocktail and a fabulous view of this gorgeous city I call home. A home and square tour would definitely be in order followed by a beach day at Tybee. We are members of the Freedom Boat Club and have enjoyed boating these waterways surrounded by sanctuaries, preserves, and untouched barrier islands. There’s much to explore in coastal Ga.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There have been so many wonderful people who have influenced me in my journey to become a business owner, health practitioner, and successful individual. First of all, I’d like to give a huge shout out to my husband, Ryan, who has been by my side every step of the way. Everything we do, we do it together. Another shoutout goes to my parents. They supported me through years of dance training, sent me to college and pushed me to stay on the path when, at times, I felt like giving up. And last, but not least, I have to give glory to God who has protected me and gently nudged me in this direction. It hasn’t always been in “my timeline” but the older you get, the more you realize THAT’S OK.

Website: Www.corepilatesandhealth.com

Instagram: Corepilatessavannah

Facebook: Core Pilates Health

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