Tips from the experts to help you grow the yoga business of your dreams
This month’s mentor:
April Dawn Wild, 35, WILD & WILD (wildandwild.co.uk) based in Cheshire, with events across the North West and UK
Your niche?
My niche is creating women-only, ethical and fully vegetarian wellness and business events. I wanted to build spaces where women could come as they are, no comparison, no competition and connect deeply through movement, mindfulness, and community. It’s yoga meets empowerment. It’s not just about yoga it’s about helping women thrive in every area of life, mind, and business.
Does a YTT set you up for running your own business?
Not at all, it sets you up beautifully to teach, but not necessarily to run a business. The real lessons come later, from learning how to price yourself, market authentically, and create an experience beyond the mat. I started out with a simple passion for yoga and over time it evolved into a thriving women’s movement. I have many offerings now from women’s wellness networking, a yearly wellness summit, walking clubs and more. I quickly learned that being a yoga teacher means wearing many hats. You’re a teacher, marketer, event planner, and business owner all in one. The key is to stay grounded in your “why” while learning as you go.
Top marketing tips?
Connection is currency. People don’t just buy your classes, they buy into your energy, story, and consistency. I use storytelling, video content, and real community connection to fill my retreats and events. My biggest blooper? Waiting too long to show my face online! Once I did, everything changed. People need to see you and feel your authenticity. I also think local collaborations are golden. I partner with cafés, wellness brands, and venues that share my values. Marketing becomes fun when it’s rooted in community.
“It’s not just about yoga it’s about helping women thrive in every area of life, mind, and business.”
Business coach or mentor?
Yes my mentor is the incredible Sara Lou Jones, founder of Centre of Excellence. She’s both a mentor and a friend, and she’s taught me the power of working smarter, not harder. She reminds me that your business should work for you, not the other way around. With four kids, I am learning to build systems and online income streams that create freedom, from courses to memberships.
Hardest lesson?
To make it profitable, you must value yourself and not be afraid to negotiate. Early on, I was nervous to approach high-end venues or brands, but I soon realised that confidence opens doors. Many luxury spaces are actually excited to collaborate once they understand your vision. The key is to know your worth, create genuine partnerships, and make every event a win-win.
Future trends?
We’re seeing huge demand for corporate wellness, and companies are realising that wellbeing fuels performance. We are also being recognised as finalists for This is MCR Awards in two categories. I think we’ll see more hybrid models of yoga combined with coaching, retreats, and business growth.
What’s the secret to making a living teaching yoga?
Absolutely, it’s possible! The secret is to evolve with your community. I’ve built a thriving business with thousands of women attending my retreats by keeping my offerings fresh, seasonal, and heart felt. I collaborate with brands who align with my ethos as this keeps things exciting and you borrow their audience too. The real magic lies in connection — when your students feel part of something bigger, they keep coming back.
Written and compiled by Claudia Brown (yogabyclaudia.com)
Om Magazine
First published in November 2009, OM Yoga magazine has become the most popular yoga title in the UK. Available from all major supermarkets, independents and newsstands across the UK. Also available on all digital platforms.
