Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Garza.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In late 2007 my husband and I moved to Kingsland, GA to help his mother with her new business. During that time we saw a sign in front of McDonald’s (lol) for jiu-jitsu. We gave them a call and started our first class on August 1st 2008. In 2013 our instructor was growing tired of running the academy and offered it to us. We started in an 800sqft warehouse off 17 in yulee, moved into a 1600sqft retail space in 2016,and finally into our current 2700sqft facility in 2019. We’ve since then been super blessed to have an amazing group of supportive people behind us, even during covid.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely has not been a smooth road! As one of the very first jiu-jitsu academies in Nassau county we have had to learn the hard way in almost every aspect of our business. From how to get people to notice us to how to plan for different seasons everything has been a learning experience. Covid was, as it was for most, one of the most uncertain times in the academy’s history. When the governor shut down all gyms we were lucky to have people who were still able and willing to pay a membership. Still, the uncertainty and mandates meant we had to still try and provide value to something that is nearly impossible to do without a training partner.
As you know, we’re big fans of Gracie Fernandina. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We are the oldest and largest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in Nassau county fl. We have an amazing diversity among our members. People from all walls of like walk into our doors and stay because they love the culture. We have competitiors, we have hobbyists, we have a big over 40 crowd, and a large group of women who train every class. I’m proud that we have been able to reach so many people through jiu-jitsu. All of our members become friends with one another in a very supportive environment. Nobody is treated like a number, we take the time to get to know you and support your goals.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is that when someone comes in their first time or their 4000th time they feel like and know we care. About both them personally and their jiu-jitsu career.
Pricing:
- Single membership starts at 126/month
- Family memberships start at $185/month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Graciefernandina.com
- Instagram: @gracie_fernandina
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/graciefernandina
