Claire Blower age 34 lives in Mansfield and has two children. Claire has been the Principal of Razzamataz Mansfield since September 2011.

Claire Blower age 34 lives in Mansfield and has two children. Claire has been the Principal of Razzamataz Mansfield since September 2011.

Q. How did you hear about Razzamataz?

Claire: I saw Denise on Dragons’ Den and at the time I was working for a competitor so it was something that really sparked my interest.

Q. What’s your background?

Claire: I’ve always had a passion for the Performing Arts from a very young age. I’ve been teaching dance for over 15 years and I also worked as a professional dancer for a few years.

Q. Have you always wanted to be an entrepreneur? 

Claire: Yes I always fancied the idea of running my own business but didn’t have the confidence. It took me a while to realise I could combine my desire to be my own boss together with my love of teaching and performing arts.

Q. How did you finance your business?

Claire: Loan from family.

Q. What are the best things about being a Razzamataz Principal?

Claire: Being able to earn a living from something I love doing. I also get a lot of satisfaction seeing the children progress and grow in confidence.

Q. What are the most difficult aspects of running your own business?

Claire: I’ve got two young children so it is a juggling act all the time. My youngest is not yet in nursery so I find sometimes I’m working till 1am to try and get everything done around them. Getting a good work/life balance is something I’ve not yet conquered but I’m working on it! I hope to grow my business as my children get older.

Q. What advice can you offer other people going into business?

Claire: Don’t underestimate how much work it will take in the beginning to get your school set up. Even with a great brand like Razzamataz it takes time for a reputation to be built, it doesn’t happen over night. There are ups and downs and you have to learn to deal with both sides. Also keep focused on YOUR business- it’s great to be part of a network but don’t always compare yourself with someone else. What works for someone else may not work for you. And make sure you have a great team around you.

Q. What’s a typical day like?

Claire: I’m not very structured at the moment but it is something I’m working on changing. Tuesdays are usually my banking and admin days and Friday is a preparation day for the Saturday school. The other days (and nights!) I deal with enquiries, emails and marketing. Really no 2 days are the same and there are lots of other things to do depending on the time of year such as leaflet drops and show preparation.