STARTUP
SASHAY MODELING AND FINISHING SCHOOL
Type of business:
Modeling/acting school, etiquette classes Address: 14074 Trade Center Drive, Suite 137, Fishers 46038
Phone: 774-2200
Web
site:
www.sashaytoday.com
Founded: Sept. 1, 2008
Owner: Claudia Lynch
Owner’s background: Lynch, 60, began working at the Indiana Jewish Chronicle
as an errand-girl when she was 8, eventually
becoming social editor. She later worked for Kartes Video. And after marrying and raising her children, Lynch spent 25 years
in real estate.
Why started business: When real estate sales dried up, Lynch decided to start a business.
She didn’t know what kind until
she tried to sign her grandchildren up for modeling/acting school, "someplace where they could have some fun, learn some
poise
and self-confidence," she said.
Unhappy with the attitude of employees at the school she contacted, she decided she could do better. So she pulled money out
of her 401(k) to buy video cameras and computers, then rented several rooms in a Fishers office building.
Classes range from the standard modeling, pageantry and acting courses to etiquette classes for wedding parties, prom preparation
and children’s table manners.
Competitive advantage: Lynch said her location is important. In addition to being in
an affluent area, the building has long
hallways that students can use to practice walking and built-in photo appeal, with curved staircases and unusual doors. She
also plans to provide students with real-life experience by including them in advertisements and television commercials.
Startup costs: $80,000
Funding source: Self-funded, with one investor who is now a silent partner
Projected first-year revenue: $500,000
Potential problem and contingency plan: Hiring qualified instructors is a challenge.
Lynch received hundreds of applications,
but most didn’t have the two or more years of life experience and college degree that she was looking for. To compensate for
this, Lynch said that she plans to "endlessly recruit" instructors.
First year goal: Lynch would like to have a solid curriculum in place within the first year. She’s also considering
expanding
to Plainfield. Lynch hopes the etiquette and protocol portion of her program will begin to expand.
Five-year vision: If Lynch has her way, Sashay will be nationwide with schools in Dallas,
Atlanta and Charlotte, N.C.
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